The National Horseracing Authority of Southern Africa (NHA) confirms that, following constructive engagement with the legal representatives of Jockey Grant van Niekerk, a settlement agreement has been reached to bring finality to the matter arising from the inquiry and appeal proceedings previously concluded against him. 

After receiving clarification from his legal representatives that the apology published in the Sporting Post on 16 October 2025 was tendered to the NHA, albeit without prejudice to Jockey van Niekerk’s rights in his pending and intended further legal proceedings, the NHA is satisfied that the conditions for the suspension of a portion of the riding ban have been met. 

Having served that portion of the sentence, which was not suspended, the riding ban imposed on Jockey van Niekerk has been uplifted with immediate effect. The balance of the 60-day suspension remains suspended until the end of the current racing season, provided that Jockey van Niekerk is not found guilty of an offence in terms of Rule 72.1.26 during this period. 

This resolution reflects an agreement reached between the parties in a good-faith effort to avoid further litigation and unnecessary cost.  Both the NHA and Jockey van Niekerk fully reserve their respective rights in relation to all matters arising from these proceedings.  

Clarification on Reporting and Court Findings: 

The NHA notes certain inaccuracies in the reporting of the statement issued by legal counsel acting for Jockey van Niekerk in which his apology was published.                                                                                                                                                                         

The sanction imposed by the Inquiry Board, confirmed by the Appeal Board, inter alia required Jockey van Niekerk to make an apology to the NHA and not to “various parties described therein” as reported. 

The conclusion of the judgment of the Honourable Judge Noko was also incorrectly quoted. That conclusion reads as follows: 

“Conclusion 

[17]        The application is fraught with some insurmountable difficulties and is bound to fail. 

[18]        It is strange and disconcerting that the Appeal Board opted not to participate in the proceedings and they are aware that the applicant alleges inability to launch the review application as reasons are not forthcoming, and the applicant is also not bothered by the absence of the reason. This posture may be construed as lending credence to the applicant’s accusations that the applicant is ill-treating its members.”  

While it is correct that the Honourable Judge Noko did not make a punitive costs order, a costs order was made against Jockey van Niekerk, including the costs of counsel. 

The NHA remains committed to upholding the principles of fairness, accountability, and respect across the horseracing industry and considers this matter now resolved.  

Michael Shackleton

Legal Executive

22 October 2025