Top Jockey Faces Backlash for Racial Abuse Toward Aboriginal People in Viral Video

Jockey Noel Callow Under Investigation Over Racist Viral Video
[Image: Noel Callow riding in a race]

Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC) officials are investigating high-profile jockey Noel Callow after a video emerged of him racially abusing Aboriginal individuals in Darwin. The footage, reportedly recorded last year, shows Callow, 50, using derogatory language toward a homeless Indigenous man and a group on a footpath.

In the first clip, Callow offers pizza to the man while repeatedly insulting him: “You stink like f. Have a shower… jump in the fing creek,” he says. The man, who explains he sleeps on the street, refuses the food, prompting Callow to mockingly reference the Indigenous band Yothu Yindi. The video ends with Callow saying, “Good to have you on the show, man.”

[Image: Screenshot from video showing Callow and the homeless man]

A second clip shows Callow shouting slurs at a group blocking a footpath: “Get up the co**s,” he yells while cycling past them. Both videos, initially shared privately, have sparked outrage after circulating online.

History of Controversy
Callow, a veteran jockey with 1,632 career wins and premierships in Melbourne and Singapore, has faced prior disciplinary action. In June, he received a three-month suspension for a post-race brawl with another jockey. He also served a two-month ban in 2024 over a separate altercation.

[Image: Callow in racing attire]

Current Status
Despite the investigation, Callow is set to ride Bear Story in Monday’s $200,000 Darwin Cup, a race where he placed third last year. He recently claimed he quit alcohol to prolong his career.

QRIC confirmed the probe, stating, “The video is presently the subject of an investigation.” Callow has not publicly addressed the incident.

The case highlights ongoing tensions around racism and accountability in sports, with critics urging swift action from racing authorities.

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