David Flood fined for ‘disparaging’ social media video

Gloucestershire trainer David Flood has been fined £1,300 for posting a video on social media containing “disparaging remarks” about former female employees.

A British Horseracing Authority disciplinary panel found the Stow-on-the-Wold handler posted a video to around 500 followers on Snapchat in which he was talking about two former female jockeys or stable hands.

In the video, made in August 2025, an image of a gallop at his stable was accompanied by Flood’s voice off camera, which he admitted was him, and said he had “two different birds that were a nightmare” and that “she wanted more days off than Santa Claus” along with other distasteful remarks.

Flood, who was interviewed about the video in December and sanctioned in May, was found guilty of a breach of Rule (J)19A regarding matters prejudicial to the integrity, proper conduct or good reputation of horseracing in Great Britain.

Judicial panel member Tim Grey said: “I agree that the culpability in this case is properly to be regarded as low when considering the identified mitigating and aggravating factors in the case.

“A slightly elevated level of fine from the entry point is appropriate to reflect the extensive nature of the pejorative language used.”

A BHA spokesman said: “Behaviour of this kind is not acceptable. British racing’s Code of Conduct establishes a set of standards aimed at protecting everyone involved in our sport, underpinned by a culture of respect.

“Everyone is expected to uphold the standards set out in the Code of Conduct, helping to create a supportive and safe environment for all.

“Anyone who witnesses or is subjected to wrongdoing in British racing is encouraged to report this. Our anonymous reporting service, RaceWISE now includes confidential WhatsApp, text, email or phone, with full contact details available at britishhorseracing.com/RaceWISE.”

Flood has trained five winners from 36 runners in 2026.