Breeders’ Cup Jockey Ricardo Santana Jr. Arrested on Strangulation Charges as Racing Licence Is Suspended

A prominent horse racing jockey has been removed from all his scheduled rides after being arrested on domestic violence charges just days before the prestigious Breeders’ Cup. Ricardo Santana Jr., 33, was taken into custody in Louisville, Kentucky, following allegations that he assaulted his girlfriend during two separate arguments. The arrest sent shockwaves through the racing community, as Santana had been expected to compete in three major races with millions of dollars in prize money at stake.

According to police records, the first confrontation reportedly began after Santana’s girlfriend challenged him about his drinking. During the argument, he allegedly grabbed her by the throat with both hands and pushed her against the kitchen cabinets, causing pain to her head. The woman managed to leave the property to escape the situation. However, when she returned later that evening with food for her children, another argument allegedly broke out, during which Santana reportedly grabbed her throat again and pushed her against the cabinets.

The police report stated that the woman complained of pain in several areas, including her head, hip, back, palm and wrist. Investigators also reportedly reviewed photographs showing redness around her throat following the first alleged incident. Santana was subsequently charged with first-degree strangulation and fourth-degree assault related to domestic violence. He pleaded not guilty in court, and a judge issued a no-contact order preventing him from contacting the woman.

The arrest immediately affected Santana’s professional career. The Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation suspended his jockey licence pending the outcome of the criminal proceedings, removing him from all mounts in Kentucky. He had been scheduled to ride three horses at the Breeders’ Cup, including Hymn in the Sprint. Trainer Ron Moquett announced that Santana would no longer ride for him, and Rafael Bejarano was selected as his replacement. Other trainers also had to reconsider their riding arrangements.

The Breeders’ Cup organization issued a statement respecting the licensing authority’s decision while emphasizing its commitment to professional conduct and condemning violence. Officials also acknowledged the importance of due process as the criminal case moves forward. Santana’s arrest has attracted additional attention because he is an accomplished jockey with more than 2,000 career victories and previous Breeders’ Cup success.

The case remains a serious setback for the veteran rider, whose future in the sport is now uncertain. However, the criminal allegations have not yet been proven in court, and Santana maintains his not-guilty plea. As legal proceedings continue, the racing industry is left dealing with the consequences of an arrest that abruptly removed one of its established competitors from one of the season’s biggest events.