Churchill Downs, KY — The 2025 Kentucky Derby came with celebration and controversy as jockey Junior Alvarado, who rode Sovereignty to a stunning victory at 7-1 odds, was fined and suspended for violating regulations during the race.
The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) has imposed a $62,000 fine on Alvarado and suspended him for the next two racing days at Churchill Downs. The penalty stems from Alvarado striking Sovereignty eight times during the Derby — two more than the permitted six-strike limit per race, as outlined by HISA regulations.
Despite the infraction, Sovereignty’s performance remains a standout moment in Derby history. Still, the incident has reignited discussions about enforcement, jockey conduct, and horse welfare in elite racing events.
Typically, riders are fined 10% of their winnings for such infractions. However, because this was Alvarado’s second offense involving crop use during a race, the fine was doubled, resulting in the unusually steep penalty.
This was Alvarado’s first Kentucky Derby win, marking a career milestone. It was also a historic victory for Sovereignty’s owner, earning their first Derby title. However, the celebration has been clouded by controversy, with some noting that the win will now carry an asterisk in the record books due to the crop violation.
