Fallon ends pursuit of U.S. license

Kieren Fallon has abandoned efforts to overcome his legal troubles and ride in the Nov. 4 Breeders' Cup championships at Churchill Downs.

Fallon, who was banned July 3 from riding in England after being charged with about 10 other people with conspiracy to defraud, had sought to be awarded a license by the Kentucky Horse Racing Authority later this month. But his attorneys released a statement Tuesday saying Fallon "has decided not to proceed with his application for a license to ride in the United States at this time as there is a great deal of uncertainty around obtaining a license in time for the Breeders' Cup."

Fallon, 41, has ridden in seven of the previous 22 Breeders' Cups. Since being banned from riding in England, Fallon has been permitted to compete in other jurisdictions, including France, Turkey, and his native Ireland.

Jim Gallagher, executive director of the KHRA, said Tuesday afternoon that his office had not been formally notified by Fallon's attorneys but anticipated hearing from them in the near future.