Italian-born jockey Sebastiano Deriu has been handed a 15-day ban after easing up on the favourite Palais Byzantin and forfeiting first place at Le Lion D'Angers on Sunday.
Deriu, in his third season riding in France and working for trainer Christopher Head, was aboard the two-year-old colt Palais Byzantin, who went off as the 7-5 favourite in the seven-furlong race.
Race incident
Palais Byzantin, who had finished placed in two previous starts including at Listed level at Vichy, appeared to have the race in hand as Deriu kicked clear entering the straight. However, with ten strides to the line, Deriu inexplicably eased up, glancing over his left shoulder, only for Goldy Glory under Martin Protti to emerge on the opposite side and snatch victory, prompting a cry of “Incroyable!” from the commentator.
Social media reaction
The ride drew sharp criticism on social media. One punter described it as “a collector's item!” and added: “In the end, it's always the bettor who gets the short end of the stick in the story ... Give him 3 or 6 months suspension, that'll teach him the trade.” Another asked: “Should we send them our bank details or what?”
Stewards' inquiry
The local stewards launched an inquiry into the finish, examining why Deriu had ceased urging the colt approximately 100 metres from the line. They found him guilty and issued a 15-day suspension for easing up on Palais Byzantin and forfeiting first place.
