Kieran Shoemark has been suspended for six days after breaking whip rules on Almaqam in the £1.5 million Juddmonte International at York on Wednesday.
The Ed Walker-trained Almaqam was runner-up in the feature race, beaten a head by Item in a photo-finish. The race was billed as a duel between defending champion Ombudsman and Aidan O'Brien's unbeaten colt Constitution River, winner of the French 2,000 Guineas, French Derby and Eclipse Stakes.
Shoemark's ride and penalty
Ryan Moore made the first move on Constitution River, but was soon overhauled by Almaqam, ridden by Shoemark, who kicked clear into what looked like a winning advantage with two furlongs to race. His lead was gradually reduced as Item closed in the last 110 yards and got level to nail Almaqam near the line.
The York stewards referred Shoemark to the BHA's Whip Review Committee. The panel ruled that Shoemark used his whip once above the permitted level of six from approximately two furlongs.
Mitigation and suspension
Allowing for the fact that Shoemark has had more than 100 rides in Great Britain since his previous whip breach, mitigation on penalty was applied. However, taking into account that this was a Class 1 race, the penalty in respect of being above permitted level was doubled.
He will be suspended for 6 days from Friday 04 to Wednesday 09 September 2026, inclusive.
Walker said afterwards: "It's a hard one to take. It looked like he had it. I'm not one for celebrating before they pass the line and I'm glad I didn't today. It was a tough one but it was a great race and great to be involved in it. He's a wonderful horse, we've always believed he was up to this level and he's really doing it this year when he gets his conditions."
