Whip rules update

Details of revised whip rules and implementation dates

 

Dear Owners/Trainers/Breeders,

We are writing to let you know of adjustments which are being made to the rule changes which are being introduced in 2023 regarding the use of the whip in British racing.

The changes are:

• The rule which stated that the whip may only be used in the backhand position has been removed. As a result, the whip may be used in both the backhand and forehand position.

• This rule has been replaced by an amendment to the rules regarding the number of times the whip may be used in a race.

The thresholds for use will, as a result, now be reduced to a maximum of six times in a Flat race and seven times in a Jump race (down from seven and eight respectively).

• Penalties for use above the permitted level, and misuse offences such as using the whip above shoulder height, without time to respond or in the incorrect place will be further increased, above and beyond the previous increases published in November 

This change follows further concerns being raised by jockeys in the last few weeks. This included the feedback that some jockeys may find use of the whip in the backhand more challenging.

The other 19 recommendations and rule changes put forward by the Steering Group and approved by the BHA Board remain unchanged. View the full report and recommendations here.

The unanimous view of the BHA Board, including its broad industry experience and understanding, was that change to the perception of the whip is essential if the sport is going to take steps to safeguard engagement from fans in the future. The Board agreed with the views of the Whip Consultation Steering Group that these changes must include developing rules which foster more considered and judicious use of the whip for encouragement, and improving the perception of whip use.

The BHA Board agreed that these objectives could be met equally through either the backhand-only rule, or the reduction in thresholds and increase in penalties announced today, when combined with the full package of measures announced in the summer.

Implementation Date

The implementation date for the new rules remains at 9 January 2023 for the ‘bedding in’ period in Jump racing, during which jockeys will be asked to ride under the new rules but will not be subject to the new penalty framework. Full implementation over Jumps then begins on 6 February.

In Flat racing the soft launch commences on 27 February and full implementation on 27 March.