Godolphin issues statement on McDonald

Godolphin says it will support its retained jockey James McDonald who has been charged with a betting offence in relation to the debut win of star colt Astern.

McDonald stood himself down on Tuesday after being interviewed by Racing NSW stewards who charged him with having an interest in a bet on Astern who he rode to win on December 5 last year.

Stewards said the hearing was prompted by intelligence received regarding McDonald’s association with a known punter and that punter’s betting

The reigning Sydney premier jockey, McDonald is the global operation’s No.1 rider in Australia and rode for Sheikh Mohammed’s team in England and Ireland during the Australian winter.

“Godolphin acknowledges the Stewards’ report that Racing NSW is investigating James McDonald for an infringement of the rules of racing,” the Godolphin statement said

“His decision to step down from riding, pending the outcome of the investigation, is the right one. We will continue to support him throughout this process.

“Prior to the outcome of this enquiry, and in order not to prejudice the findings, we will make no further comment.”