PJA slams "malicious" video of Benoit de la Sayette at party where cocaine was used
By Racing TV
Last Updated: Tue 5 Dec 2023
A video posted online which shows rising star Benoit de la Sayette in the presence of cocaine has been described as “malicious” by the Professional Jockeys Association.
The short clip appeared on an account “purporting” to belong to the rider, who won the Lincoln on board John and Thady Gosden’s Haqeeqy on Saturday – his first ever ride on turf.
While a statement from the PJA confirmed it was De la Sayette in the video, it was allegedly recorded in 2019 when he was just 16, and he strenuously denied ever taking drugs.
Benoit De La Sayette guided Haqeeqy to victory in the Lincoln at Doncaster for John and Thady Gosden
Benoit De La Sayette guided Haqeeqy to victory in the Lincoln at Doncaster for John and Thady Gosden on Saturday
The statement read: “A film has been tweeted from an account purporting to be Benoit de la Sayette’s. The film was apparently first circulated in the aftermath of Benoit’s victory aboard Haqeeqy in the Unibet Lincoln at Doncaster on Saturday.
“For the avoidance of doubt, this account is not Benoit’s nor is it under his control. This carefully edited film maliciously suggests that Benoit was taking cocaine after winning the aforementioned race.
“Benoit lives with his parents and was driven to and from Doncaster on Saturday by his father along with another jockey, and spent the evening at home with his parents. He was also riding at Doncaster on Sunday and once again driven there and back by his father.
“The film is actually from October 2019, when he was 16, nine months prior to Benoit being licensed. He was at a party in Lambourn and filmed being in the presence of cocaine that others, not him, were taking. He did not and does not take cocaine.
“Whoever is responsible for the distribution of this film is clearly intent on trying to cause significant damage to a young man at the start of his career. The PJA is taking steps to try and have the account that posted the video removed.”
Related posts
Cheltenham Festival eye-catchers: eight horses to follow
Ross Millar: a Lucky 15 for next year's Festival
Aidan O’Brien: Albert Einstein is the horse everyone is dreaming about
The 2026 Grand National: guide to all the entries
Jockey Club unveils plans to transform key tracks after securing £100 million deal
Featured offers
Bet £10 Get £30 in free bets in Multis with Betfair
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Get £40 in free bets when you bet £10 with Coral
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
£40 in free bets when you bet £10 with Ladbrokes
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Bet £10 Get £60 with Spreadex
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Bet £10 Get £40 in Free Bets + money back if 2nd to SP fav with Boyle Sports
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Bet £10 get £30 in free bets with Virgin Bet
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Copyright 2026 Racing TV - All Rights Reserved.
Please bet responsibly
Copyright 2026. All rights reserved