Ricardo Santana Jr had three mounts on Saturday at Keeneland, Kentucky but has had his licence suspended pending the outcome of the charges against him

A Breeders’ Cup jockey has been replaced three days before the start of the meeting following his arrest for alleged domestic violence offences.

Ricardo Santana Jr had been named on three mounts at Keeneland on Saturday, including 14-1 chance Hymn in the £1.4 million Breeders’s Cup Sprint. He was also due to partner Foie Gras in the Filly & Mare Sprint and Doncho in the Turf Sprint, both worth £740,000. Santana, who has ridden two previous Breeders’ Cup winners, has ridden 140 winners in 2026 out of a career total of 2,256.

But his licence has been suspended by the Kentucky Horse Racing & Gaming Corporation following his detention by the Louisville Department of Corrections in Kentucky.

According to the booking record, dated October 27, the 33-year-old has been charged with “strangulation 1st degree (domestic violence related)” and “assault, 4th degree (domestic violence) minor injury".

According to local news site wlky.com Santana appeared at Jefferson County District Court on Tuesday and was released on a $25,000 cash bond, with conditions to have no contact with his girlfriend and no other violations of the law. He is due to reappear on November 4.

Ron Moquett, trainer of Hymn, said: “We have been made aware of the situation involving Ricardo.

“While we understand that everyone deserves due process, we have made the decision that Ricardo will not ride for us in the Breeders’ Cup. A replacement rider will be announced shortly.

“Our concern extends to everyone affected by this situation. We will be ready to support Ricardo in getting whatever help or counseling he may need. Accountability and compassion are not mutually exclusive.

He later announced that Rafael Bejarano would take over.