A string of recent incidents involving jockeys, coupled with a growing disregard for authority and respect for officials, has raised serious concerns about the moral direction of South African racing. As the financial pressures on participants intensify, so too does the temptation to push ethical boundaries, leading to a noticeable erosion of integrity within the sport.

A Self-Control Crisis Among Jockeys

Two recent high-profile cases have underscored a deeper issue—an apparent lack of self-discipline among some jockeys. The most controversial of these, widely known as HitGate, has drawn global attention. With an official ruling still pending, the incident involving senior jockey Gavin Lerena repeatedly striking fellow rider Jason Gates during a race has sent shockwaves through the industry.

At the Saudi Cup meeting, one of the most prestigious racing events in the world, South Africans were repeatedly asked the same question: What will be the outcome of HitGate? The fact that an internationally respected jockey engaged in such conduct on the track is alarming enough, but what’s equally troubling is the support he has received from some top owners and influential figures. This raises the critical question: Has the industry lost its moral compass?

In a sport built on discipline and respect, there is no place for such behavior—on or off the track. Racing is not only a professional industry but also a community that relies on trust, fairness, and adherence to ethical standards. Any deviation from these principles risks damaging its reputation beyond repair.

The Sean Veale Affair—A Deeper Integrity Issue

Adding to the controversy, Hollywoodbets-retained jockey Sean Veale was recently exposed for sharing inside information about a first-time runner that subsequently won. This revelation came to light after an unnamed owner used the National Horseracing Authority’s (NHA) whistleblower line to report the incident.

The fallout was swift—Veale lost his retained rides with Hollywoodbets. However, the betting giant has yet to issue a formal statement condemning his actions. This silence is concerning, as interviews surrounding the incident suggest that such behavior is not only common but, in some circles, even joked about. The lack of widespread condemnation raises serious questions about racing’s integrity and whether these breaches are simply being brushed under the carpet.

The NHA Under Fire

The NHA itself has faced growing scrutiny, particularly over its handling of various disciplinary matters. While the international racing community has largely praised its work, local sentiment has been mixed. Decisions made by the regulatory body have come under heavy public criticism, further complicating its already difficult task of maintaining order within the industry.

A Declining Respect for Trainers and Owners

Beyond the jockeys, troubling trends are emerging at the ownership and training level. Reports of owners failing to pay trainers and engaging in disrespectful communication paint a stark contrast to the past, when these relationships were built on mutual respect. The situation worsens when prominent trainers air their frustrations publicly, creating further division in an industry already struggling to maintain unity.

Restoring Racing’s Moral High Ground

South African racing stands at a crossroads. The industry must reclaim the high moral standards that once defined it, and that responsibility lies with all stakeholders—jockeys, owners, trainers, officials, and administrators alike. Ethical leadership is needed now more than ever to ensure the sport’s integrity remains intact.

Without swift action and a renewed commitment to the core values of respect, discipline, and honesty, the very foundation of South African racing risks being further eroded. The world is watching, and the industry must decide—does it continue down this path of moral decay, or does it rise to the occasion and restore its rightful place as a sport built on integrity?