Davids Lad, joint favourite for the Martell Grand National, has been dramatically ruled out of the race by the Naas stewards in Ireland.
After trailing in last on Sunday Davids Lad was banned from running for 42 days under the “non-triers” rule.
Trainer Tony Martin was fined 1,000 Euros (£670) for using the racecourse as a schooling ground and jockey Timmy Murphy suspended for seven days for making insufficient effort.
Murphy will be able to ride Beef Or Salmon, the second favourite, in the Cheltenham Gold Cup because his ban applies only to those dayswhen there is racing in Ireland, and there is none during the Festival.
Davids Lad will be allowed to return to action on 7 April , two days after the National. Martin said he is considering an appeal.
