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    Tony Martin's ban was extended by two months
Tony Martin's ban was extended by two months
Tony Martin's ban was extended by two months. Source: shutterstock.com/ru/g/MickAtkins

Tony Martin's ban was extended by two months

Trainer Tony Martin, currently under suspension for breaking anti-doping rules, has had his ban extended by two months and faces a €5,000 fine following his conduct after Alphonse Le Grande's Northumberland Vase victory.

Initially banned for six months in mid-May, with three months suspended, Martin's sister, Cathy O’Leary, took over his licence during his absence. However, Martin was observed in the paddock before and after the Newcastle race, where he appeared to provide riding instructions to jockey Hollie Doyle.

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board’s referrals committee deemed Martin’s actions a "flagrant disregard of the rules," bringing the sport into disrepute. Consequently, he received an additional two months’ suspension from August 16 to October 16, along with the fine.

Martin was found to have breached Rules 272(i) and 273(xiii) by undermining regulatory authority and tarnishing the industry’s reputation through continued involvement as a trainer despite his licence withdrawal.

Martin promptly apologised for his actions surrounding the Northumberland Vase, expressing regret for letting his enthusiasm for the sport overshadow his suspension status. He acknowledged his inappropriate behaviour and pledged full compliance with any disciplinary measures imposed.

The IHRB referral committee recognised Martin’s apology and his commitment to distance himself from future racing and training activities overseen by his sister, which mitigated the severity of his sanction.

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