US racing chiefs launch Fergal Lynch investigation

Disgraced jockey Fergal Lynch is facing the prospect of being banned from riding in America.

Last week, the British Horseracing Association's disciplinary panel decided against a suspension, despite his admittance that he stopped Bond City from winning at Ripon in August 2004 - an offence that usually carries an entry point of a 30-month worldwide ban.

The 31-year-old Irishman, who has been allowed to continue his career in America, is a leading rider at Philadelphia Park with 98 winners and has won prize money of £1.47million ($2.4m) this season.

Under a plea bargain, Lynch was handed a £50,000 fine and agreed not to seek a licence in Britain for one year. The BHA disciplinary panel chose "not to invite any other jurisdiction to impose any restriction on Lynch's license".

But BHA spokesman Paul Struthers admitted: "The Pennsylvania Racing Commission were keen to see the evidence."

Justin Fleming, a spokesman for the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, confirmed that documents from the BHA had been requested.

He said: "They arrived late last week and the Pennsylvania Racing Commission is now currently reviewing Lynch's case."

Lynch has been serving a seven-day suspension for careless riding and is expected to return on Saturday.