At least two Tasmanian racing stewards, including acting chief thoroughbred steward Michael Castillo, have been stood down amid an investigation into allegations that at least five stewards bet on races. The Tasmanian Racing Integrity Commissioner conducted a betting audit, though details about the specific races or amounts wagered remain unclear. Castillo has denied placing bets but confirmed he is cooperating with the investigation and expects to be reinstated. The probe is ongoing, with TasRacing and the commissioner declining to comment.

Former steward Janet Ainscow emphasized that stewards betting on races undermines the sport’s integrity, as their decisions must remain unbiased and free from monetary influence. Racing Minister Jane Howlett highlighted that the independent Racing Integrity Commissioner is handling the investigation and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening integrity reforms in Tasmanian racing.