Mystery Surrounds Winston's Abrupt Departure from Bahrain
The racing world was left stunned as Robert Winston, the former top Flat jockey who recently made a dramatic return to competition in Bahrain, has had his licence suspended and reportedly returned to Britain while an investigation continues into the circumstances surrounding his sudden departure.
Winston, who had announced his retirement from race-riding in 2019 citing weight maintenance issues and ongoing effects of injuries, had generated significant excitement with his unexpected return to the saddle in Bahrain last week.
Successful Comeback Cut Short
The jockey's comeback appeared to be off to a flying start when he rode a double from two mounts during his return to competitive racing. However, the triumph was short-lived as news emerged that his contract with trainer Paul Smith has been terminated and his riding licence suspended by Bahrain authorities.
A spokesperson for the Bahrain Turf Club confirmed the suspension, stating: "Following an incident involving Mr Robert Winston, his licence was suspended." The circumstances remain "the subject of an ongoing investigation," leaving the racing community speculating about what prompted the sudden action.
Chequered Career History
Winston's career has been marked by both remarkable highs and significant controversies. The former champion apprentice was on course to be crowned champion jockey on the Flat in 2005 when he suffered serious injuries in a fall at Ayr. Despite this setback, he continued to achieve success with two Group One winners to his name, most recently aboard Librisa Breeze in the 2017 Champions Sprint at Ascot.
However, in 2007, Winston faced disciplinary action when he was banned for a year by the British Horseracing Authority's independent disciplinary panel for passing information for reward. This latest suspension in Bahrain adds another chapter to his turbulent racing narrative.
After initially retiring in 2019, Winston made low-key returns to action during the 2021 and 2022 seasons but hadn't ridden in Britain since March 2022. His decision to seek a licence in Bahrain, granted just ahead of the country's racing season starting on 31 October, had been seen as a potential career revival.
Racing Community Awaits Answers
As the investigation continues in Bahrain, the British racing community is left wondering about the future of the talented but controversial jockey. The mystery surrounding the incident that led to his suspension has generated significant speculation within racing circles.
With Winston now believed to have returned to Britain, questions remain about whether this marks the definitive end of his racing career or merely another setback in a career that has repeatedly demonstrated resilience in the face of adversity.
The Bahrain Turf Club has provided no timeline for the investigation's conclusion, leaving Winston's professional future in limbo as the racing world awaits further developments in this unfolding story.
