Gordon Elliott, the trainer of two-time Grand National winner Tiger Roll, has released a public apology today after an image emerged of him posing with a dead horse.
He was the one to confirm that the image itself was real and was quick to apologise, saying: ‘I apologise profoundly for any offence that photo has caused.’
Behind every photo is a reason and Elliott has given an explanation regarding his actions in the photograph. He said that he took a phone call and sat down without thinking.
For many, this is just a shallow excuse and the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board have already opened up an investigation. The British Horseracing Authority have also been in contact with their Irish counterparts today.
The BHA said that they were “appalled” and are currently considering their own disciplinary options.
Ahh the old classic… "My phone rang and without thinking I answered it and sat down on a dead horse"#GordonElliott
— Chris C (@Ch31in) February 28, 2021
Although he was keen to reinforce his commitment to the safety and well-being of his horses in his statement, the fallout is likely to hit Elliott hard. Some companies have already started to discontinue their association with him.
One of these companies is Betfair who said that Elliott’s actions are completely at odds with the values of the brand.
Whilst they did acknowledge the apology given, the shocking image is enough for the company to cut ties with him completely.
It has been met with widespread condemnation online, with some people calling for him to be banned indefinitely.
Hope Gordon Elliott never gets to work with a horse of any kind ever again. Don’t care what the reason was or how long ago it was. If that photo dosent make you feel sick to the core then you’re troubled. Throw the book at him.
— JC (@JCorcoran_3) February 28, 2021
It remains to be seen what this means for Tiger Roll in the upcoming Grand National. Should Elliott be banned then his horse may not be able to participate.
That will be another punishment for Elliott as Tiger Roll is a win away from tying Red Rum for most National wins with three.
The Grand National is set to take place behind closed doors at Aintree next month after not happening at all last year due to COVID-19.
Whether either Elliott or Tiger Roll will be there is an unanswered question. Ensure you keep checking Merseysportlive as we’ll have up to date coverage on what is a fastly developing story.
Featured Image by – creative commons Dan Heap
