'We have never spent as much on it' - HRI chief reacts to Davy Russell criticism of prize-money in Ireland

Suzanne Eade, Horse Racing Ireland Chief Executive Officer.Photo: Patrick McCann/Racing Post21.01.2022

Suzanne Eade: the chief executive of Horse Racing Ireland has defended prize-money in the countryCredit: Patrick McCann (racingpost.com/photos)

Suzanne Eade, chief executive of Horse Racing Ireland, has countered claims made by retired multiple champion jump jockey Davy Russell that poor prize-money could push the industry over the edge by stressing "we have never spent as much as we will in 2024".

Russell was a guest columnist in Wednesday's Racing Post and suggested the notion of Irish racing being home to healthy prize-money levels compared to other jurisdictions is a "bit of a fallacy".

Ireland's three-time champion jump jockey believes if an owner or a syndicate has a horse capable of winning races the prize-money should cover the training fees and other costs.

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David JenningsDeputy Ireland editor

Published on 8 August 2024inIreland

Last updated 20:05, 8 August 2024

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