ROB JAMES has been handed a 12-month suspension after a video emerged of him sat on a dead horse.
The last eight months of his ban are suspended, following an Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB) referral hearing into the video posted on social media.
The IHRB said that James has agreed not to attend a Racemeeting or a Point to Point for the four month period of his suspension.
Mr. Robert James (Rider/Handler) Referral Hearing pic.twitter.com/97TrK4zPmp
— IHRB (@ihrb_ie) March 10, 2021
After the video was released, the Irishman apologised for his actions, claiming they were disrespectful.
He said: "To try defending my stupidity at the time would add further insult and hurt to the many loyal people that have supported me during my career. I have caused embarrassment to my employers, my family and most importantly the sport I love."
This comes after trainer Gordon Elliot was punished by the IHRB after a photograph of him sitting on a dead horse emerged on social media.
Gordon Elliot has been banned by the BHA pending an investigation by Irish authorities (Image: Twitter)Elliott was forced to pay legal costs and is also banned from racing for 12 months, with six months suspended.
It was found that Elliott had "acted in a manner which was prejudicial to the integrity, proper conduct and good reputation" of the horseracing industry, according to the IHRB.
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