In a surprising turn of events at Belmont Park, seasoned jockey Flavien Prat was unexpectedly unseated from his mount during the fourth race, leading to his withdrawal from all further engagements on Friday. Despite the alarming incident, reports confirmed that Prat emerged physically unscathed. This incident also involved another jockey, Pedro Pena, who, after a brief medical check, was cleared to continue.
Jockey Prat Unseated in Belmont Park Incident, Cleared of Injury But Withdrawn from Remaining Rides
On a brisk Friday, October 16, 2026, at Belmont Park, an unexpected mishap unfolded during the fourth race, a six-furlong maiden special weight event for two-year-old fillies. Veteran jockey Flavien Prat, a two-time Eclipse Award winner, was dramatically unseated from his horse, In The Queue, near the finish line. The filly, trained by Michael Maker, was observed walking onto the equine ambulance under her own power before being transported to the barn area for a thorough veterinary examination.
Amidst immediate concerns for Prat's well-being, his agent, Brad Pegram, promptly conveyed to Horse Racing Nation via text message that the jockey was "good. All OK," reassuring fans and colleagues alike of his condition. However, due to the incident, Prat was subsequently excused from participating in his remaining scheduled rides for the day.
The same chaotic moment also saw jockey Pedro Pena dismounted from his ride, White Star, a filly under the care of trainer Fernando Abreu. Fortunately, after receiving attention at NYRA first aid, Pena was given the all-clear to resume his riding duties. White Star was swiftly retrieved by NYRA outriders and safely returned to her stable. The race ultimately concluded with the favorite, Under the Moon, a filly trained by Joe Sharp, claiming victory.
At the time of the incident, Prat held a commendable second position in the Belmont Park jockey standings, boasting 22 wins from 84 starts. Manuel Franco led the standings with 27 victories from 137 starts, highlighting the competitive nature of the racing season.
This event serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks within horse racing, where fortunes can change in a split second. While unsettling, the quick response of medical teams and the positive outcome for the jockeys involved underscore the robust safety protocols in place within the sport. It also brings into focus the resilience of these athletes, who, despite such dramatic events, are often back in the saddle with unwavering determination.