Top US jockey Paco Lopez has been suspended for six months by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) due to multiple whip violations, including a December incident where he struck a horse in the face. Despite having already served a 50-day suspension and agreeing to therapy and charity donations, Lopez was penalized for ten additional whip infractions since January. He has appealed the suspension, but his request to stay the ban was denied.

In response, many leading jockeys across the US, including John Velazquez, Tyler Gaffalione, and Mike Smith, have publicly criticized the length of the suspension as excessive and disproportionate to the offenses. The Jockeys Guild is seeking an emergency meeting with HISA to discuss potential changes to whip regulations. Lopez’s regular mount, Book’em Danno, will not compete at the upcoming Breeders’ Cup, with trainer Derek Ryan expressing support for Lopez and opting to rest the horse for the season.