Senior jump jockeys speak out over 'bloody ridiculous' whip rule changes

Leading jump jockeys have criticised the new whip rules set to be introduced in the new year and warned of a succession of bans in the run-up to the Cheltenham Festival once the changes are introduced, with Harry Cobden referring to the situation as "bloody ridiculous".

From February 6, following a four-week bedding-in period, jumps riders will only be permitted to use the whip in the backhand position. Using it just once in the forehand position will result in a seven-day ban, or a two-week ban if the rule is breached during a Class 1 or 2 race.

Cobden, who has ridden 59 winners this season, says he has experimented with the new style since the publication of the whip review in July. Speaking at Taunton on Thursday, he said: "I don't agree with what the BHA have done by bringing the rule in – I think it's bloody ridiculous.