Zero complaints over Murphy’s lengthy ban

OISIN MURPHY admitted himself that he can’t turn back time and right the several wrongs that resulted in a 14-month riding ban.

The reputation of Britain’s current two-time champion Flat jockey has been seriously damaged but Murphy (pictured) was open and honest about his failings in this week’s BHA hearing.

He was gripped by alcholism that sparked a web of deceit that the Irishman simply could not get out of. Admitting and facing up to your demons is the first step in combatting addiction.

Everyone wishes Murphy all the best in his deeply personal battle. He’s one of a few jockeys that can really engage with a younger audience that racing desperately seeks.

However, given his status in the sport and the worrying charge sheet, there is little doubt that a 14-month ban is fair.

He chose not to self-isolate from a trip to Greece in September 2020, a reckless action that put the weighing room at risk amid a global pandemic.

That, and one other Covid breach, contributed to 11 of the 14 months for the ban, with the other three for two failed tests for alcohol. The latter failed test was the day after the infamous incident in Newmarket when Murphy was allegedly involved in a drunken altercation. He’s also failed a drugs test in the past and was serving a ban for his cocaine positive at the time of his trip to Greece.

The BHA panel heard how Murphy lied about self-isolation by saying he went to Italy and not Greece. He was also fined £31,111, which was 10 per cent of his prize money. Murphy says he’s sought professional help and now has his drinking under control. Let’s hope this disturbing chapter is firmly behind him.