Jose and Irad Ortiz face illegal cockfighting allegations ahead of Preakness
Champion jockeys Jose and Irad Ortiz are facing allegations of participating in illegal cockfighting events in Puerto Rico just days before the Preakness Stakes.
The highly successful siblings have been linked to the outlawed blood sport following a media investigation into social media posts and videos.
This controversy emerges on the eve of the second leg of the US Triple Crown at Laurel Park.
Both riders are scheduled to compete this Saturday, with Jose partnering Chip Honcho and Irad taking the reins on Talkin.
Animal rights activists demand investigation
Footage recently shared online allegedly shows the prominent horsemen collecting cash from inside a fighting ring.
Cockfighting has been strictly prohibited in the United States and its territories since 2019.
Despite the federal ban, the practice remains a deeply ingrained cultural tradition on the Caribbean island.
Campaigners are now urging racing authorities to intervene and strip the multimillion-pound earners of their eligibility for the prestigious Eclipse Awards.
Facebook posts highlight tournament participation
A promotional post from last December explicitly named the celebrated track stars as participants in a major tournament.
“Brothers Irad and José Luis Ortiz accepted the challenge of competing in the tournament of champions known as the ‘Gran Campeón Caribeño’, with a single goal: to attempt to be crowned the undisputed champions.”
“Although they distinguish themselves in the world of international horse racing, they also harbor a passion for fighting cocks.”
The event organisers further stated it was an absolute honour to host the world-renowned equestrian duo at their coliseum.
Unmatched success on the racecourse
The timing of these claims casts a shadow over an incredibly lucrative period for the celebrated Puerto Rican natives.
Jose recently guided Golden Tempo to victory in the Kentucky Derby, narrowly defeating Renegade, who was ridden by his older sibling.
Irad has firmly established himself as the leading US jockey by both wins and earnings over the past four consecutive years.
Together, the formidable partnership has accumulated more than £520m in total prize money throughout their distinguished careers.
Neither rider nor their official representatives have publicly responded to the ongoing allegations.
The Horse Racing Safety and Integrity Authority currently holds no regulatory jurisdiction over events occurring in Puerto Rico.