Racing Victoria has made one of their apprentice jockey coaches redundant.
Alf Matthews, who worked alongside former riding great Darren Gauci, was recently informed his tenure at Racing Victoria was over after 14 years with the administrator.
The removal of Matthews follows a review of Racing Victoria’s apprentice jockey programs as they look to save costs and work closer with the Victorian Jockeys’ Association.
Both RV and the VJA confirmed they would now have greater collaboration on the development of Victoria’s young apprentices, including increased guidance by the well-regarded Matt Pumpa.
Pumpa is a former apprentice coach and current employee of the VJA.
Matthews returned from a period of absence in 2026, with Racing Victoria’s review deciding shortly after that their apprentice program only needed one coach.
Betsy is told Matthews and Gauci both applied for the single coaching position, with Gauci successful.
Several senior Victorian jockeys have also had active roles assisting young apprentices of late, including in Stewards’ hearings, especially on country tracks.
Matthews, a 10-time Group 1 winner, rode more than 1,600 winners during a distinguished career that took him across the world.
‘’As you’ve probably heard by now, I’ve been made redundant from Racing Victoria,’’ Matthews texted his contacts this week.
‘’Unfortunately they think Darren is the best person for the position as they think one coach is sufficient.
‘’It’s very disappointing, as I loved working with you all and more importantly fighting and defending you in the stewards room.
‘’Take care and ride well.’’
VJA boss Matt Hyland thanked Matthews for his role mentoring his riders.
‘’Alf played an important role and we look forward to keep working with RV to ensure there is appropriate support for our apprentices,’’ he said.
Racing Victoria also thanked Matthews.
“After review of the Workforce Development Team, its program delivery and efficiencies, we have made some structural changes as a result of a strengthened strategic partnership with the Victorian Jockeys Association (VJA),” a spokesperson said.
“This model will see the VJA more actively involved in the Apprentice Jockey Training Program (AJTP), supporting the work of the Apprentice Jockey Coach and Workforce Development Team. It will also involve VJA services, such as welfare and representative support, being more closely aligned to the AJTP.
“As a result of this new partnership, the AJTP will now be supported by one Apprentice Jockey Coach and, after a selection process, Darren Gauci has been chosen to continue in that position.
“We wish Alf Matthews the very best and thank him for nearly 14 years of service with RV. Alf was employed initially as an Integrity Services Officer and then moved into an Apprentice Jockey Coach role in 2020. Throughout his time with RV, Alf demonstrated commitment and passion for the thoroughbred racing industry and for developing young riders.”
