Horse racing fans have called for a lengthy ban for jockey Christophe Soumillon after he appeared to elbow a rival during a race.
The incident happened at Saint-Cloud in France on Friday as Soumillon raced in the Thomas Byron Stakes.
Soumillon, who was riding Syros, made contact with Rossa Ryan on Captain Wierzba midway through the race and sent his fellow jockey to a nasty looking-fall.
Replays showed the Frenchman appearing to elbow Ryan as he edged ahead of him in the pack and he was subsequently disqualified from the race.
Fortunately for Ryan, he was able to walk back to the medical tent after the shocking incident. He is due to be involved in six races at Ascot on Saturday.
But there are calls for Soumillon to face a long ban as a result of his actions during the race.
Racing pundit Jamie Lynch told Sky Sports: "We are amazed by what has happened. The very fact that horse has already been disqualified shows the significance of the situation.
"That shows how dangerous that incident is deemed to be for the officials.
He is due to return to the track to ride Vadeni in the big race at Longchamp on Sunday, the Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.
But it remains to be seen if he will be involved, with racing fan @anth_rich posting: "Needs a lengthy ban for that! Madness!"
His sentiments were echoed by @Wakashandy, who added: "Big ban. That was intentional!"
"He should be banned for life for that… the jockey was lucky to walk away unharmed!" added @laurnibheachain.
