Two fillies sold at the recent Magic Millions Yearling Sale on the Gold Coast remain ineligible to race due to Racing Australia’s strict enforcement of foal ownership declaration rules. The fillies—a $190,000 Savabeel daughter and a $150,000 Spirit Of Boom yearling—were sold with embargoes disclosed to buyers, pending appeals to lift the bans. These embargoes stem from late or unpaid foal ownership declarations, a requirement introduced to improve horse traceability, with penalties including ineligibility to race unless special circumstances are proven. The issue has raised concerns within the breeding industry about potential widespread impacts on future yearling cohorts, though Racing Australia reports improved compliance in recent seasons.

The controversy has also affected other sales, such as the Inglis Classic Yearling Sale, prompting cooperation between sales companies and Racing Australia to avoid embargoed horses being sold. While the bans prevent racing in Australia, embargoed horses can still be exported and raced overseas or used for breeding, with their offspring eligible for registration. Racing Australia maintains that the enforcement aims to ensure compliance and integrity, though communication delays and appeal processes have caused frustration among breeders and buyers. The outcomes of the current appeals remain pending, with the industry watching closely for resolutions.