Champion jockey Oisin Murphy has temporarily given up his chariot license “while he participates fully with medical support” following two incidents of positive alcohol testing in this year and a breach of COVID-19 protocol in September 2020.
In a joint statement released by the BHA, Murphy said: “When returning from overseas in September 2020, I failed to follow the COVID protocol set forth by the BHA. In breaching these rules and attempting to falsifying the BHA, I have let my governing body, along with the coaches, owners, staff, sponsors and family, to whom I would like to apologize.
“Additionally, there have been two alcohol-related incidents at the racecourse in 2021. It became clear to everyone that I needed to seek serious help. To realize this, I gave up. license and will now focus on my rehabilitation.”
Murphy, a three-time UK flat-roller champion, had to appear before an independent disciplinary panel on December 10 for breaching COVID-19 protocol last September, but that has been postponed again after Murphy’s legal team filed a claim regarding his welfare and decided to temporarily waive his license.
Murphy added: “I am grateful to the BHA for agreeing to adjourn the disciplinary hearing until I can take these steps.
“Whether I deserve it or not, many kind people have sided with me and I really appreciate their support. I am deeply ashamed and regretful of my actions.”
