Shark Hanlon backs controversial plan to hold restricted races - but Simon Munir says initiative 'penalises' owners

Trainer Shark Hanlon said yesterday that Horse Racing Ireland’s initiative to exclude top jumps trainers in Ireland from competing in 60 races next year is "a positive step".

However, the proposal continues to prove controversial and high-profile owner Simon Munir said that the scheme punishes success and contravenes what should be a meritocratic model within the industry.

The planned change to the race programme has sparked much debate, which is set to continue after it was revealed the affected trainers are considering legal action against Irish racing's governing body.