Amateur Jockey Suspended: Grand National Winner Denied Prize Money

Amateur jockey and 2025 Grand National winner Patrick Mullins has been suspended for eight days for using the whip too much during his triumph at Aintree. Mullins rode Nick Rockett, a gelding trained by Willie Mullins, to victory, holding off last year's winner I Am Maximus at odds of 33/1.

Whip Misuse and Suspension
However, just days after this impressive win, the Whip Review Committee scrutinised Mullins' ride and handed him an eight-day suspension. Mullins, 35, was found to have used his whip eight times from the final fence, exceeding the allowed limit of seven. Normally, the punishment for exceeding the whip allowance is a four-day penalty, but penalties for Class One events like the Grand National are doubled. Consequently, Mullins will be side-lined on April 23, April 25, May 2, May 7, May 10, May 14, May 16 and May 20.

Prize Money Restrictions
Despite the suspension, it doesn't tarnish the shine of Nick Rockett's victory, marking a remarkable few days for the Mullins family and putting trainer Willie back in the running for the British trainer's title. Amateurs are allowed to take part in flat and jump races, but must do so for enjoyment only. Amateurs are not allowed to receive any prize-winnings. Jockeys who are victorious pocket around 8 per cent of the prize pot, which is usually equivalent to around £40,000. Unfortunately for Mullins, the joy of winning and the happy memories are the only prizes he is allowed to receive.