BHA back down in whip row

Changes to the controversial whip rules were announced today, ending the limit of five hits at the climax of a race and dropping the automatic loss of prize money.

The move follows talks on Monday between the British Horseracing Authority and Professional Jockeys' Association to try and avert the threat of a strike by jockeys, angry at the rules which were brought in 11 days ago.

Although the whip can still be used only seven times in a Flat race and eight times over jumps, the ruling banning more than five hits in the last furlong or after the last obstacle has been removed.

Jockeys will no longer lose their riding fees and, crucially, they will only have to give up their prize money if they are banned for at least seven days, rather than the three days the rules originally stated.

In effect, that means someone who whips one more time than allowed - such as Christophe Soumillon at Ascot last week - will not lose their cash but will still be banned.

The Belgian was furious he lost £52,000 after being punished for striking Cirrus Des Aigles six times in the final furlong on his way to winning the Champion Stakes.

However, he will get that money back as the BHA say anyone punished under the harsher penalties will have their case reviewed under the new rules, which took effect this afternoon.

The BHA hope the changes will end the controversy, which saw leading Flat-racing jockey Richard Hughes quit last week after receiving two bans in four days.