Pike hit with ban after Australian Cup ride

Top West Australian jockey William Pike has copped a suspension after his ride on Apulia in the Group 1 Australian Cup.

Pike copped a 12 meeting suspension after breaching the whip rules.

Pike, according the Stewards, used his whip three more times prior to the 100m than he was allowed.

''Rider William Pike (Apulia) pleaded guilty to breaching the provisions of AR132(7)(a)(ii) in that he used his whip on eight occasions prior to the 100 metres, which is three more than permitted,'' the Stewards' report said.

''W Pike had his licence to ride in races suspended for a total of twelve race meetings with the period to commence on Sunday 29 March 2026 and to expire Wednesday 8 April 2026."

''Accordingly, W Pike will be able to return to ride on Thursday 9 April 2026."

''Further, W Pike was fined $4,000. In assessing penalty, account was taken of his guilty plea, record, the totality of his whip use, that his mount finished third in a Group 1 race and the RV Whip Penalty Guidelines.''