Why parting may suit both Gigginstown and Mullins

It has been a turbulent week in Irish racing circles and, in the days dominated by the controversial process involved in the reappointment of Horse Racing Ireland CEO Brian Kavanagh, the news that two of the superpowers of National Hunt racing in Ireland have parted ways has kept the sport in the headlines.

Yesterday morning, trainer Willie Mullins revealed that leading owners Gigginstown House Stud is removing all 60 of its horses from his care with immediate effect, following a disagreement over fees.

While we must take on face value that this is the reason for the split — both parties have said that is the case — there are reasons to feel the partnership may not have been a great fit for some time.