An Australian racehorse trainer has been hit with a substantial fine after posting offensive language on social media platforms. Will Hulbert, who operates in partnership with his father Peter as Hulbert Racing, has been ordered to pay £1,000 by Racing Victoria stewards following two separate social media posts deemed prejudicial to the sport's image.
The Incident That Sparked the Controversy
The situation unfolded when Hulbert's horse, Lady Of Five, was scheduled to run at Caulfield racecourse last Saturday. The filly had to be withdrawn as a non-runner because the vehicle transporting her became stuck in severe traffic congestion following multiple accidents on Melbourne's highways.
Offensive Social Media Posts
To explain the runner's absence, a post appeared on both the X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook accounts of Hulbert Racing. The message stated: "Lady Of Five is fine guys. We allowed 2 hours for a 50 minute trip to Caulfield and some r****d crashed on the highway and stuffed everything."
A subsequent message added: "They're everywhere ... might go and jump in a machete bin, so I don't call anyone a p**f." When questioned about his choice of language in replies, Hulbert responded: "I chose it carefully. Cheers."
Racing Victoria's Response
Alerted to the posts, Racing Victoria stewards conducted an inquiry that began on Saturday and concluded on Monday after speaking with Hulbert. The stewards' official report confirmed that registered co-trainer Will Hulbert was found guilty under the provisions of AR228(a) for posting material prejudicial to racing's image.
The report stated: "After considering his not guilty plea and lack of remorse, Stewards fined Mr. Hulbert the sum of $2000. Mr. Hulbert was advised of his rights of appeal."
Stewards' Justification for the Penalty
Chief steward Rob Montgomery explained the reasoning behind the decision to Racenet.com, noting: "There have been previous breaches but not in relation to that type of language. The fine is probably a little higher than others we've had but it is offensive when you use those words on social media."
Montgomery emphasised the broader impact, stating: "It's just not on. It's bad for the image of racing." He further commented on Hulbert's attitude during proceedings, saying the trainer "didn't show any remorse" and adding: "Imagine if it was one of your family members involved in that car crash. You don't know the impact on people, it's horrible."
Hulbert's Reaction and Appeal Plans
Will Hulbert has expressed strong disagreement with the penalty, describing himself as "shocked and appalled" by the fine. He questioned the complaint process, saying: "I just want to know who complained to them and said it was offensive. Probably some purple-haired weirdo who identifies as a cat."
His legal representative, Corey Cullen, confirmed that an appeal would be lodged on Tuesday. Cullen stated he would take on the case without charge "because it's an absolute joke" and described the fine as "massively over the top for not doing anything wrong."
Broader Context and Implications
This incident highlights the increasing scrutiny facing sports professionals regarding their social media conduct. Racing authorities worldwide have been implementing stricter guidelines about online behaviour that could damage their sport's reputation.
The case also raises questions about:
- The appropriate penalties for offensive language in professional sports contexts
- The balance between personal expression and professional responsibility
- How racing authorities manage social media conduct among licensed participants
As the appeal process moves forward, this case will likely continue to generate discussion about acceptable language in professional sporting environments and the consequences for those who breach conduct standards.
