GORDON ELLIOTT has been backed by Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary despite the trainer’s ‘deeply regrettable’ dead horse photo.
Elliott, 42, has apologised for a photo that showed him doing the peace sign and chatting on the phone while sat on the body of a horse that had just died of a suspected heart attack.
Racing chiefs have launched an investigation to get to the bottom of the photo’s origins.
Bookies Betfair have already severed all ties with three-time Grand National winner Elliott.
But O’Leary, 59, said in a statement that he has accepted Elliott’s apology and that he will ‘continue to support him’.
O’Leary, who owns the famed Gigginstown House Stud, said: “We accept that this photograph was a grievous but momentary lapse of judgement by Gordon, and not in keeping with our 15-year experience of his concern for and attention to the welfare of our horses.
“We all make mistakes, and what is important is that we learn from them and ensure we do not repeat them.
“We accept Gordon’s sincere, profound and unreserved apology and we will continue to support him and his team at Cullentra, as they work to recover from this deeply regrettable incident.”
Elliott trains O’Leary’s two-time Grand National-winning stable star Tiger Roll.
The horse’s participation in next month’s showpiece is in doubt.
But it appears Gigginstown will stand firm in their support of Elliott until the outcome of the investigation is known.
O’Leary added: “Eddie [Michael’s brother] and I were deeply disappointed by the unacceptable photo which appeared on social media over the weekend.
“The care and welfare of all our animals comes first with all our trainers.
“Sadly, from time to time, our horses suffer injuries and/or fatalities and we expect all such cases to be treated with the care and attention they deserve.
“We have always found that animal welfare comes first, second and third at Cullentra.”
Similarly, Cheveley Park Stud say they will await the outcome of the investigation before making a decision on their ties with Elliott.
Their horses include big Cheltenham favourite Envoi Allen, who is also trained by Elliott.
A statement read: “We are truly horrified and dismayed by the photograph doing the rounds on social media however, we will await the official outcome of the investigation by the IHRB, which we trust will be swift, before making any further comment/decisions.”
