Nico de Boinville: English jockey cleared of making racist comments to Declan Queally

Nico de Boinville has been cleared of making racist comments towards fellow jockey Declan Queally at the Cheltenham Festival.

De Boinville, 36, had “categorically” denied the accusation he used such language, after Irish amateur jockey Queally said he was targeted before the Novices’ Hurdle when it was held up because of a false start on day two of the meeting.

Queally, riding I’ll Sort That, and Englishman De Boinville, on Act Of Innocence, could be seen exchanging words at the start line.

The two later appeared on ITV Racing together and shook hands at the entrance of the weight room, where the Irishman said the matter was “all sorted”.

However, the British Horseracing Authority instigated an investigation and found “no evidence to support the allegation made by Mr Queally of racist comments”.

“It is understood, and accepted, that strong language was used by De Boinville at the start and directed towards Mr Queally,” said a BHA statement.

“It was also stated that a number of riders were also verbally expressing their frustration at the start, away from the incident being enquired into.

“There was no audio evidence or verbal evidence given from any party during the course of the enquiry to corroborate that any language used was of a racist nature.”

While Queally’s complaint was not upheld, De Boinville was reminded of his “obligations and the expectations to ensure he behaves in a professional manner, and this includes when pressure is heightened at the start of high-profile fixtures”.