In a dramatic turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the global horse racing community, internationally acclaimed jockey William Buick has been permanently suspended and fined $20,800 for excessive use of the whip while riding Modern Games during a high-stakes race last month. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from fans and animal welfare groups, leading to the jockey’s unexpected early retirement, years before the standard retirement age in professional racing.
The race, held at Santa Anita Park as part of the World Turf Series, was one of the most anticipated turf mile events of the season. Buick, who was aboard the highly favored Modern Games, pushed the horse hard in the final stretch. While the duo did cross the finish line first, the celebration was short-lived. Race stewards immediately opened an investigation after reviewing footage that showed Buick appearing to strike the horse well beyond the legal whip limit.
According to the official statement from the race authorities, Buick exceeded the allowed number of whip strikes by a “significant margin,” violating both U.S. Racing Commission and Breeders’ Cup regulations. The stewards classified the incident as a Category 1 violation, the most severe, prompting an automatic fine and an unprecedented lifetime suspension for the top-tier jockey.
“The rules are in place to protect the welfare of horses and ensure fair play,” the statement read. “Mr. Buick’s actions not only breached these rules but also undermined the integrity of the sport. After due consideration, we have made the difficult decision to permanently revoke his riding license in the United States.”
The backlash was swift. Social media erupted with fans, animal rights activists, and former colleagues expressing their disappointment. Hashtags like #BanCruelRacing and #JusticeForModernGames began trending within hours of the announcement. Several racing personalities called the incident “heartbreaking” and “a blemish on an otherwise exemplary career.”
“He was one of the best, no doubt,” said former jockey-turned-commentator James Doyle. “But something changed. He took the stakes too seriously, and this cost him everything.”
Buick, 36, had long been hailed as one of the finest jockeys of his generation. Born in Norway and raised in the UK, he quickly rose through the ranks to become the retained rider for Godolphin, one of the most prestigious stables in the world. He had multiple Group 1 victories across Europe, the Middle East, and North America, and was often praised for his balance, composure, and tactical brilliance.
In a brief and emotional press release issued from his home in Newmarket, Buick announced that he would be retiring from professional racing with immediate effect, citing “the irreparable damage to [his] reputation and the unbearable public scrutiny.”
“I deeply regret my actions and accept the consequences,” the statement read. “While I never intended to harm the horse, I now realize I let the pressure get the better of me. I owe an apology to the sport, the fans, and most importantly, to Modern Games.”
Buick’s retirement marks a premature end to what had been an extraordinary career. Industry experts estimate he had several prime years left, and he was expected to lead Godolphin’s charge in the upcoming Royal Ascot meeting.
Godolphin has yet to make a formal statement regarding his departure or who will replace him in future races.
This incident has reignited debate around whip usage, jockey stress, and animal welfare in horse racing. Advocacy groups are now calling for even stricter penalties and better psychological support for riders competing at the highest levels.
Whether William Buick will ever return to racing — in any capacity — remains uncertain. But for now, one of the sport’s brightest stars has seen his career end in controversy and regret.
