- Joao Moreira, nicknamed ‘The Magic Man’, had a sickening fall at Flemington
- The Brazilian-born 33-year-old fell from his horse and was trampled
- He was treated by paramedics and will not race in Melbourne Cup
A world-class jockey has taken a sickening fall during the fourth race at Flemington Racecourse, devastating his hopes of racing in the Melbourne Cup at 3pm.
Joao Moreira, nicknamed ‘The Magic Man’ for his impressive track record, was riding Regal Monarch when he collided with a horse at the back of the pack.
The Brazilian-born 33-year-old was then trampled by a horse and left lying face-down on the turf.
Sickening fall: World-class jockey Joao Moreira was trampled by horses during the fourth race at Flemington Racecourse
The Brazilian-born 33-year-old was left lying motionless and face down on the track
Paramedics treated Moreira’s leg as he lay on the ground, before he eventually made it to his feet and walked tenderly off the racecourse without assistance.
Trainer Chris Waller said the horse, which was able to walk off the track but was taken away in an ambulance, was ‘not well’.
‘It looked like he was travelling well and looked to avoid heels or something,’ Waller said.
‘Joao is conscious and has no neck or back pain.’
Moreira, who was due to race horse Thomas Hobson in the Melbourne Cup, has been ruled out for the remainder of the day.
His replacement jockey is set to be announced shortly.
‘I’m okay’: Paramedics treated Moreira’s leg as he lay on the ground, before he eventually made it to his feet and walked tenderly off the racecourse without assistance