What counts as careless, negligent or reckless riding, and what are the penalties?
Rule- South Africa
- National Horseracing Authority
- Horse racing
- All ages
- NHA Rules of Racing
- 2026
- Jockeys
Rule 62.2 of the NHA Rules of Racing says you must not ride in a careless, negligent, improper, reckless or dangerous manner; must take all reasonable precautions to stop your horse crossing another and interfering; must not let your horse interfere with or jostle another horse or rider; and must not cause interference, bunching or intimidation. You must also ease up gradually after the finish, not pull up abruptly, and never abuse or mishandle a horse.
Penalty guidelines (May 2026):
| Offence | Guideline penalty |
|---|---|
| Careless riding | Caution, warning or reprimand, or 3 to 7 days (minimum 1 meeting) |
| Negligent riding | 7 to 14 days (minimum 2 meetings) |
| Horse crossing another | Warning, R5 000 fine or 7 to 14 days (minimum 1 meeting) |
| Interfering or jostling | 7 to 14 days (minimum 1 meeting) |
| Interference through negligence | 7 to 21 days (minimum 1 meeting) |
| Reckless interference | 21 to 30 days (minimum 3 meetings) |
In races worth R500 000 or more, a fine may be added. Your horse can also be placed behind the horse it interfered with, or disqualified, if an objection is upheld.
Added 22 Oct 2026