Kentucky Derby-winning jockey fined, suspended for excessive riding crop use on Sovereignty during race

Jockey Junior Alvarado, who rode Sovereignty to victory in the recent Kentucky Derby, has been fined $62,000 and suspended for violating riding crop rules by striking the horse eight times, exceeding the allowed six strikes under HISA regulations. This was Alvarado’s second violation within 180 days, leading to an escalated fine and a two-day suspension. Sovereignty will not compete in the Preakness Stakes but is expected to run in the Belmont Stakes, following a strong performance in previous races.