THREE-TIME champion jockey Oisin Murphy is ‘under observation in hospital’ – after being forced to miss a strong book of rides at Kempton.
Sun Racing’s Matt Chapman confirmed on At The Races that the Flat jockey is OK and in the care of doctors.
But the 28-year-old Irishman had a situation with his health that ‘left him concerned’ and went to get it checked out.
Sun Racing columnist Andrew Balding told Chapman there’s ‘every chance’ Murphy will be back in the saddle tomorrow.
Murphy is currently booked for four rides at Lingfield.
A BHA stewards’ report said prior to racing at Kempton today: “An enquiry was held to consider why Oisin Murphy, who was required to provide a breath sample, had failed to arrive.
“The Sampling Officer, the Clerk of the Scales and Murphy were interviewed, and the matter was forwarded to the Head Office of the British Horseracing Authority for further consideration.”
Murphy is currently miles ahead in the jockey standings and looks in pole position to land a fourth crown.
The 2019, 2020 and 2021 champ is on 101 wins for the season at the time of writing – an incredible 36 ahead of second-placed Rossa Ryan.
He enjoyed a brilliant Glorious Goodwood earlier this month where four wins – and seven runner-up finishes – saw him take top jockey honours.
Murphy said afterwards: “I was fortunate Ryan had to go to the US!
“He rode four winners in three days and it took me five days to ride four.
“The seconds are very painful and most of them were for Andrew Balding, so thank you to him and his team, and apologies for not winning on more of them.”
Chapman said: “Oisin Murphy missed his rides today and one or two tweets have tried to create massive drama but there really isn’t any drama
“Oisin’s just under a little bit of observation – I’m not going to say what for, it’s up to Oisin to say what for – but basically he had a situation where he was concerned about something and went to get it checked out.
“I’ve spoken to Andrew Balding and Andrew thinks there’s every chance Oisin will be riding tomorrow.
“If he isn’t riding tomorrow I can tell you right now Oisin, whatever state you’re in you will be riding in the Racing League on Thursday night!
“So nothing too serious with Oisin Murphy at all, according to Andrew Balding, who’s his boss effectively.”
More to follow.
FREE BETS – GET THE BEST SIGN UP DEALS AND RACING OFFERS
Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org.
Remember to gamble responsibly
A responsible gambler is someone who:
Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chases their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org
Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.
Creator – [#item_custom_dc:creator]
