Epsom Derby Non-Runner Decision Explained After Christmas Day Backers' Winnings Deducted
Epsom Derby favourite Benvenuto Cellini was declared a non-runner by stewards following a stalls incident, triggering a Rule 4 deduction for backers of winner Christmas Day. The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) on Monday described the decision as "probably the most extreme test of this rule imaginable."
Epsom stewards announced the verdict 20 minutes after the race concluded, meaning stakes on the favourite were refunded and backers of winner Christmas Day, a stablemate of Benvenuto Cellini, faced a 25p in the £1 Rule 4 deduction from winnings. However, several bookmakers chose to waive the penalty.
Benvenuto Cellini's near hind-leg became trapped on the inside running board of the stalls as the gates flew open, causing him to break slowly. He eventually crossed the line a well-beaten 10th under Ryan Moore, but officials ruled he had not been afforded a fair start under powers that only came into force from 1st May 2024.
Regulation Background
The regulation was introduced in the wake of an incident at Royal Ascot in 2018, when Harry Angel became entangled in the stalls just as the field was released for the Diamond Jubilee Stakes. The rule stipulates that stewards may declare a horse a non-runner if it is "denied a fair start and its chances are materially affected."
BHA Statement
In a blog post published on Monday, the BHA stated: "The incident we witnessed on Saturday is probably the most extreme test of this rule imaginable, involving the heavily backed favourite in the Derby. We entirely understand the frustrations of those who were affected by the Rule 4 deduction, and the impact on bookmakers."
The BHA added: "However, this must be balanced against the impact on those who had backed the horse and were denied a fair start, which is who this rule was brought in to protect."
"Some industry and betting stakeholders have suggested that the rule should now be reviewed. We will of course listen to any concerns which are raised and engage with those within the sport. Our rules are constantly under review and the same will apply here."
