The article details a disciplinary inquiry by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) into allegations of race-fixing involving the horse Hillsin at Worcester in 2023. Jockey Dylan Kitts admitted to deliberately restraining Hillsin after reportedly receiving a threat from John Higgins, father-in-law of Premier League footballer Ashley Barnes. Higgins allegedly told trainer Chris Honour, “He’s let the cat out of the bag,” implying the horse’s poor performance was intentional. Honour denies involvement, claiming he was unaware of any wrongdoing despite frequent contact with Higgins before the race.

The inquiry revealed that Hillsin’s odds drifted suspiciously from 2-1 to 11-1, raising concerns of corrupt practices. Honour testified that Higgins had promised greater opportunities due to his footballer son’s influence but distanced himself after the race amid threats and confusion. While Honour and Higgins face charges of conspiring to fix the race, Higgins is currently not participating due to medical issues, and Barnes has been excluded from the investigation for non-cooperation but not charged. The inquiry remains ongoing.