Nico de Boinville has categorically denied racially abusing Irish jockey Declan Queally during a chaotic start to the Novices' Hurdle at Cheltenham Festival 2026. The English jockey was accused by Queally of using racial slurs before the race, which was delayed by multiple false starts. De Boinville told BBC Radio Sports Extra he denies all allegations, saying 'there weren't any racial slurs or anything like that.'

Stewards are reviewing video footage and gathering evidence as the investigation continues. The controversy erupted after Queally, riding I'll Sort That, and De Boinville on Act Of Innocence exchanged words at the start line. Queally later told ITV Racing he was 'abused by an English rider' and called the incident 'horrific' while riding in front of his children. The 37-year-old amateur jockey was given medical clearance after appearing to fall before the race.

The incident overshadowed a chaotic start where four jockeys breached rules, with Queally receiving a one-day suspension for misconduct. Legendary jockeys AP McCoy and Ruby Walsh criticized the rolling start system, with Walsh saying it 'hasn't worked for 20 years' and suggesting better tape technology is needed. De Boinville remains free to ride in upcoming races including the Stayers' Hurdle and Ryanair Chase.