PETA Calls for Ban of Jockey Paco Lopez from Kentucky Derby for Whipping Violations
PETA has reached out to Churchill Downs Inc. requesting the ban of jockey Paco Lopez from the Kentucky Derby due to alleged violations of whipping regulations. According to PETA, Lopez was suspended for six months by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) for serious whipping violations. The organization claims to have documented Lopez engaging in similar actions in Louisiana races over the past four months, despite the state not being under HISA jurisdiction. PETA alleges that Lopez repeatedly violated whipping rules during races, including raising his arm above his helmet to strike the horse he was riding.
PETA highlighted that Lopez's actions in a Kentucky Derby–qualifying race exceeded Louisiana's six-strike limit, with the jockey reportedly whipping his horse seven times inappropriately. Since the implementation of HISA's Racetrack Safety Program in July 2022, Lopez has accumulated 22 whip violations, leading to multiple suspensions by HISA. PETA emphasized one instance where Lopez continued to strike a horse for 20 seconds after crossing the finish line.
In addition to calling for Lopez's ban from the Kentucky Derby, PETA urged Churchill Downs, Inc. to nullify any previous points earned by the horse Chip Honcho under Lopez's guidance. The organization also requested that any horse ridden by Lopez in future Kentucky Derby-qualifying races be deemed ineligible for points. PETA further appealed to the Louisiana Racing Commission to revoke Lopez's racing license in the state, submitting a formal complaint supported by photographic evidence.
PETA's efforts to hold Lopez accountable for alleged whipping violations underscore the organization's commitment to animal welfare in horse racing. The call for sanctions against the jockey aims to uphold standards of fair and humane treatment of horses in competitive events.