In a shocking twist just days before one of the year’s most anticipated races, the rumors surrounding Irad Ortiz Jr.’s physical condition have been confirmed — and the implications are sending shockwaves across the racing world. Ortiz Jr.’s personal doctor has come forward in a rare and unexpected statement, declaring, “Irad is not fit to compete. He’s been carrying a persistent injury that was never properly treated.”

The statement contradicts earlier reports from race officials who insisted that Ortiz Jr. was “cleared and ready.” But now, the racing community is reeling as questions mount about who knew what — and when. Many are pointing fingers not just at the organizers, but at fellow jockey Ryan Moore, who was quickly slotted into a high-profile ride originally rumored to be assigned to Ortiz.

“This wasn’t just a miscommunication,” said a source close to Ortiz’s camp. “There were discussions happening behind closed doors long before Irad even agreed to race. Some people clearly knew he wasn’t in top form — and they were ready to benefit from that.”

Speculation is rising that Moore may have had insider knowledge about Ortiz’s condition — or worse, that pressure was applied to push Ortiz into racing despite being unfit, to pave the way for another rider’s opportunity. Fans and commentators alike are calling this not just unethical but potentially dangerous.

What’s adding fuel to the fire is a leaked internal message allegedly sent from a race team official, referencing “a strategic lineup shift due to concerns over Jockey I.O.’s mobility.” The message, while not naming names, matches the timeline of Ortiz’s recent medical assessment — and Moore’s sudden appearance on the lineup sheet.

Social media is ablaze. Fans are divided — some defending Moore’s professionalism, others accusing him of playing the political game behind the scenes. “If Ryan knew Ortiz was injured and said nothing, that’s not sportsmanship. That’s opportunism,” one Twitter user posted, receiving over 10,000 likes within hours.

Ortiz Jr. himself has not made a formal statement yet, but sources say he is “deeply frustrated” and feels “used as a pawn in a much bigger game.” His team is reportedly considering legal options if any pressure can be proven from organizers to race while unfit.

Meanwhile, race organizers have gone silent, refusing to comment on the doctor’s revelations or on Moore’s role in the switch. With mounting scrutiny and calls for transparency, the event that was supposed to be a celebration of elite competition has now become a storm of controversy, politics, and hidden agendas.

This is no longer a sports story — it’s a scandal unraveling in real time. And it’s far from over.