Fergal Lynch, currently the leading rider at Philadelphia Park Casino & Racetrack, has been suspended for one year, Pennsylvania Racing Commission spokesperson Justin Fleming confirmed July 21.
Lynch, who has earned more than $2.4 million in purses this season, was suspended as a result of his actions in England, where he admitted to preventing a horse from winning a race in 2004. Under a recent plea deal with the British Horseracing Authority, Lynch agreed not to seek a riding license in England for one year. He was also fined more than $80,000.
It is possible that Lynch, whose brother Cathal trains at Philly Park, could face further discipline from the Pennsylvania Racing Commission, although they have not ruled on the matter as of yet.
“The suspension was a private property decision by (Philadelphia Park),” Fleming told The Blood-Horse. “The ruling was made July 17 and it was precipitated by his actions in England. The commission has not ruled on the matter yet and the investigation continues.”
Lynch was suspended for 18 months after being accused of stopping his mount, Bond City, from winning an allowance race back in August of 2004 at Ripon. The incident led to a race-fixing investigation and although Lynch was acquitted during a high-profile trail, he later agreed to a plea with British racing authorities.
Philadelphia Park officials could not be reached for comment.