Murphy does merit support... but has to be on final warning

THE odd mistake and wayward decision in life can be forgiven but two-time champion jockey Oisin Murphy looks to be on his final warning after Friday’s revelation.

The 26-year-old failed a pre-racing breath test for alcohol at Newmarket, although the rider was under the drink-drive limit. The same thing happened in June 2019 at Salisbury and Murphy was banned for three months when a urine sample came back positive for metabolites of cocaine in

France last summer.

The two-year window between failing a breathalyser for jockeys means that the slate is wiped clean and Murphy will receive just a caution.

With the Irishman looking odds-on to win a third successive jockey’s championship, however, three incidents involving one of racing’s hottest properties does not reflect well on the sport.

Murphy is an engaging and popular figure in the weighing room. When interviewed, he comes across as unassuming and very intelligent. His talent, knowledge of pedigrees and explanation of race tactics is truly outstanding. His presence on social media is strong and he appeals to a younger audience that racing wants to attract.

Murphy ought to be a role model for others but actions off the course undermine the professionalism of racing. As pundit Kevin Blake said on ITV: ‘Questions have to be asked… is he unlucky or is this indicative of a reckless lifestyle? He’s an ambassador for the sport and this isn’t a great example.’

Only Murphy knows why this keeps happening on an all-tooregular basis. It’s easy to forget that he left his native Ireland to primarily race in Britain at a young age and burst on to the scene eight years ago when riding a four-timer on Ayr Gold Cup day in 2013. Issues, however minor they may seem, with alcohol and drugs have only arisen since his ascent to the very top. He needs support.

Frankie Dettori yesterday admitted there was a ‘sense of shock’ about the issue and maybe the 51-year-old Italian is the perfect man to give Murphy the guidance he requires. Dettori has been in Murphy’s shoes and had problems of his own almost a decade ago.