BHA investigates lay bets on Champion Hurdle favourite

Betting patterns surrounding the withdrawal of odds-on Champion Hurdle favourite Faugheen from the race are being investigated by the BHA in a rare intervention that is being assisted by the Turf Club.

Faugheen’s trainer Willie Mullins, who is not suspected of any wrongdoing, has assisted the authorities in their probe, which has involved a visit to his Closutton yard.

The investigation concerns the striking of several lay bets before news of Faugheen’s injury emerged, with the amounts involved significant enough to affect his price with bookmakers and on betting exchanges.