Cesarewitch Debacle: Controversial Finish Leaves Crisford Disheartened

Simon Crisford expressed feelings of being "slightly robbed" after Manxman narrowly lost in a contentious finish at the Cesarewitch in Newmarket on Saturday. Alphonse Le Grand triumphed in a thrilling battle over the two-and-a-quarter-mile handicap, but replays revealed that jockey Jamie Powell, a 3lb claimer, had used his whip on the gelding ten times—far exceeding the permitted six strikes. This violation raises concerns about potential disqualification under the British Horseracing Authority’s regulations.

The BHA confirmed on Saturday evening that the case has been referred to the Whip Review Committee, which will convene on Tuesday to assess Powell’s ride and determine any possible sanctions.

Crisford, who trains alongside his son Ed, described his mood as "fairly subdued" given the circumstances surrounding their near victory. "I wasn’t aware of the situation when I left the racetrack because I left straight afterwards, but then I received a call from Tony Hind, Ryan Moore’s agent, informing me that we might win the race. Given that I was already halfway home, I couldn’t go back to the track," he told Racing TV.

"When all the facts came to light, I felt even more subdued. I felt especially sorry for Ed because this race is so iconic and historic; it would have been a tremendous win for us. It’s a major televised event and a significant moment for our stable, making us feel somewhat cheated."

Since the alteration of whip rules last year, only two horses have been disqualified due to their jockeys exceeding the limit.