Declan Queally and Nico de Boinville have resolved their conflict following Queally’s claim that De Boinville made a derogatory racial remark towards him at Cheltenham Festival. The Irish amateur rider Queally and De Boinville, a stable jockey for Nicky Henderson, engaged in a heated altercation during the Turners Novices’ Hurdle race, causing a chaotic start with two false starts before the 21-horse field finally began. De Boinville finished second on Act Of Innocence, while Queally came in fifth on I’ll Sort That.
Queally expressed his displeasure with De Boinville’s behavior, stating that being verbally abused by the English rider was unpleasant, especially as an amateur rider in front of his family. De Boinville responded by suggesting that Queally reflect on his own actions. Queally further claimed that De Boinville’s comments had racial undertones and reported the incident to the BHA stewards, while De Boinville declined to comment.
However, the situation has now been resolved, with Queally and De Boinville shaking hands and confirming that the issue has been settled during an interview with ITV after The Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle. Both riders expressed forgiveness and good wishes towards each other. Former Champion Jockey AP McCoy commended their resolution.
The two riders reconciled with a handshake before proceeding to prepare for the next race, The Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle. AP McCoy praised their actions, considering it the right course of action.