Former apprentice banned for three years Former apprentice jockey Matthew Hopkins has been disqualified for three years with immediate effect after being found guilty of backing and laying horses. Hopkins learnt of his fate after appearing before the disciplinary panel of the British Horseracing Authority on Thursday. The BHA press office tweeted: "Matthew Hopkins found in breach of Rule (D) 53.2 of Rules of Racing and disqualified for three years, effective today. Reasons to follow." His disqualification will end on June 24, 2018.
