Group 1 Jockey James Innes Jr Banned 25 Years for Sexual Misconduct in Australia

James Innes Jr, a Group 1-winning Australian jockey known for his 2020 Doncaster Mile victory, has received a 25-year ban from racing after being found guilty of sexual misconduct. The ban follows an investigation by Racing NSW and a hearing where five female racing participants alleged multiple incidents of sexual assault and harassment, some occurring at stables and licensed premises. Innes Jr was charged with eight offenses, stood down in September, and chose not to appeal the findings or penalty, effectively ending his riding career. Racing NSW has not released specific details about the charges or the investigation, and while the case has been shared with police, no charges have been reported. Innes Jr's career included over 300 wins and significant prize money earnings, but the severity of the ban marks one of the longest suspensions in Australian racing history outside of life bans. The governing body and Innes Jr have declined to comment publicly on the matter.