Soumillon appeals against Ascot punishments Christophe Soumillon has lodged an appeal to the British Horseracing Authority against punishments handed out to the Belgian-born jockey at Ascot on Saturday. The French-based rider won the Qipco Champion Stakes, the richest race ever run in Britain, on Cirrus Des Aigles, but was found in breach of new whip rules in that he hit his mount six times in the final furlong. Soumillon was given a five-day suspension and also forfeited his riding fee and percentage of prize-money, which totalled in excess of £50,000. Soumillon is being represented by Christopher Stewart-Moore, who lodged the appeal on his behalf. Soumillon's British agent Shippy Ellis said that the appeal had been made "reluctantly" by the rider. Ellis added: "He has received widespread support from around the world, particularly from France, Canada and Hong Kong."
