A video has emerged online which shows Irish jockey Rob James climbing on top of a dead horse.
The clip, which was shot in 2016, has appeared in the wake of the controversy surrounding trainer Gordon Elliott, who has apologised for a similar photo in which he sat on a dead horse in the gallops.
Elliott has since been banned from participating in British horse racing and the Irishman is under investigation.
The video itself features which James alongside two others who are laughing at his actions.
Speaking to the Irish Field, James apologised for his actions: ‘I have become aware of a video circulating of me on social media.
‘I would just like of apologise for my actions which were wholly inappropriate and disrespectful to a lovely five-year-old mare, who unfortunately suffered a sudden cardiac arrest while at exercise earlier that morning, April 30th, 2016.’
‘I sincerely apologise to the owners of the mare, the staff who cared for her, the horseracing industry and all followers of horse racing for my actions.
‘To try defending my stupidity at the time would add further insult and hurt to the many loyal people that have supported me during my career. I have caused embarrassment to my employers, my family and most importantly the sport I love.
‘I am heartbroken by the damage I have caused and will do my best to try and make amends to those hurt by my conduct.’
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board has released a statement regarding the issue.
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board are aware of further social media content circulating and the matter is under investigation,’ the body said on Tuesday morning.
The amateur jockey was due to ride to ride in the 5:20 at Gowran Park in Kilkenny later today, but that horse has now been declared a non runner.
His most recent race came on Monday when he finished fifth atop King of Brazil at Punchestown.
Last year at Cheltenham, James rode Milan Native — an Elliott horse — to win the Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup for Gordon Elliott and Gigginstown.
