What are the rules on jockeys using the crop (whip)?

In South Africa the whip is called the crop. Rule 58.10 and Appendix E of the NHA Rules of Racing:

• Only NHA-approved crops may be used: maximum 68 cm long, at least 1 cm in diameter, no more than 160 g, with a smooth, shock-absorbing contact area.
• A rider may not misuse the crop, use it unnecessarily or excessively, or hit a horse on the head.
• Examples of excessive use include: hitting with the arm above shoulder height, more than twice on consecutive strides, with excessive force, without giving the horse time to respond, when the horse is not responding, out of contention, clearly winning or past the post, on the flank or stomach, and more than 10 times in the race.
• The crop may only be used forward of the saddle in limited situations, such as backhand down the shoulder with both hands on the reins.

Fines under the May 2026 penalty guidelines are typically R1 000 per breach, with R10 000 and/or 7 days for causing injury and R5 000 and/or 7 days for hitting a horse on the head.