Fallon and Rodgers charged

Kieren Fallon was charged today as part of an investigation into alleged horse racing corruption, police said.

Fallon was one of 28 people answering bail at Bishopsgate police station in the City of London in connection with the inquiry.

The six-times champion jockey, who won the Irish Derby yesterday, was charged with conspiracy to defraud, police announced.

Former racing syndicate director Miles Rodgers was also charged with conspiracy to defraud and an offence under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

The City of London Police investigation – codenamed Operation Crypton – has been hanging over the sport for more than two years.

The inquiry has been looking at more than 80 races and more than 130 officers have worked on the case.

Fallon can be prevented from riding in Britain as a result of the charge, but the Turf Club in Ireland says it will be taking no action pending the outcome of the court case.

Fallon is retained rider to the powerful Coolmore operation and partnered their Dylan Thomas to an easy success in the Budweiser Irish Derby on Sunday.

He has received the backing of the key partners in the worldwide racing and breeding operation.

A statement from Coolmore read: “John Magnier, Derrick Smith and Michael Tabor, for whom Kieren Fallon rides, have been assured that Mr Fallon is innocent of these charges and look forward to his opportunity to defend himself, and to the early resolution of this issue.”