Irish rider Declan Queally and British jockey Nico de Boinville have settled their disagreement following an incident at the Cheltenham Festival. The dispute arose during a chaotic start to the Turners Novices’ Hurdle, with tensions escalating as the riders jostled for position in the 21-horse field. Despite two false starts, De Boinville finished second on Act Of Innocence, while Queally came in fifth on I’ll Sort That.
Queally expressed his displeasure at De Boinville’s conduct, labeling it as abusive and unkind, especially as he was riding in front of his family. De Boinville responded by suggesting Queally reflect on his own actions.
Queally later claimed that De Boinville’s remarks had racial undertones and reported the incident to the BHA stewards. De Boinville declined to comment at that time.
However, the situation has since been resolved, with Queally and De Boinville reconciling during an interview with ITV at the Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle. They exchanged handshakes and expressed mutual forgiveness and well wishes for each other. Former Champion Jockey AP McCoy commended their resolution.
The duo’s reconciliation occurred before the third race, The Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle, demonstrating a positive outcome following their initial confrontation.