Former champion jockey Freddy Tylicki, 35, is suing fellow rider Graham Gibbons for £6 million in compensation, alleging that Gibbons' dangerous riding caused the fall that left him paralysed. The incident occurred during a race at Kempton Park in October 2016, resulting in Tylicki fracturing his spine and suffering multiple rib fractures.
Tylicki, now a Sky Sports commentator and wheelchair user, brought his case to the High Court in London. His barrister, Lord Faulks QC, argued that Gibbons' riding was 'dangerous in the extreme' and that he directed his horse into Tylicki's path, leaving him trapped and causing the fall.
Lord Faulks stated that Gibbons must have been aware of Tylicki's position and failed to take action, despite Tylicki shouting a warning. He alleged that Gibbons rode 'without any due regard for the consequences of his manoeuvre', though he did not suggest Gibbons deliberately intended to injure Tylicki.
Gibbons' lawyer, Patrick Lawrence QC, firmly denied any carelessness, describing the incident as 'a racing incident which had tragic consequences but which does not found a tortious claim for compensation'. He argued there was no evidence of unacceptable carelessness or conduct warranting tortious liability.
The court heard that Tylicki was trampled by following horses and airlifted to hospital, spending four months in recovery. A Stewards Enquiry on the day deemed the incident accidental, but Lord Faulks noted the inquiry concluded without knowing the severity of the injuries or hearing from the fallen jockeys.
The trial before Judge Karen Walden-Smith is expected to last five days, with both Tylicki and Gibbons due to give evidence.
