Fortune gets licence - and R500 000 fine

Danie Toerien

Andrew Fortune, arguably South Africa's most enigmatic jockey, is back in the saddle.

The National Horseracing Authority of Southern Africa (NHA) today in a press release confirmed that Fortune has been granted a Jockey Licence with immediate effect, and that he has been fined R500,000 - of which R250,000 is suspended for a period of five years - for contravening Rules 72.1.26 and 72.1.43 in relation to social media content which could be construed to discredit horse racing, the NHA and its officials.

According to the press release, NHA's Licensing Board met on Friday 14 February to consider Fortune’s application for a Jockey Licence.

"At the meeting, Mr Fortune was informed of outstanding administrative requirements and disciplinary matters that had been identified by the Licensing Board," reads the press release.

"He subsequently provided documentation in support of his application and signed an Admission of Guilt concerning contraventions of Rules 72.1.26 and 72.1.43 in relation to social media content which could be construed to discredit horse racing, the NHA and its officials. A fine of R500 000 was imposed, of which R250 000 is suspended for a period of five years on condition that he is not found guilty of contravening rules pertaining to his conduct during this period."

The Licensing Board granted Mr Fortune a Jockey licence, with immediate effect, with certain conditions, including that he initially be restricted to a minimum riding weight of 58kg, that he is restricted to riding in Southern Africa under the Rules of the NHA until 31 July 2026, and that his future professional conduct would be closely monitored.