Star jockey James McDonald has been disqualified for 18 months for profiting $4000 from a bet on Astern who he rode win on debut.

The 24-year-old Godolphin jockey pleaded guilty to a bet being placed on his behalf by punter Anthony Gardiner after Astern won at Randwick on December 5 last year.

McDonald’s ban starts from when he stood himself down on November 15 and expires on May 15, 2018.

McDonal’s Response:

I made a mistake betting and broke the rules.
I accept responsibility for that.
But I am so disappointed with the penalty and will appeal.

— James McDonald (@mcacajamez) December 22, 2016

Article from JustHorseRacing.com.au