Darren Weir faces the prospect of two more years on the sidelines after the VRT on Friday handed down its decision in relation to animal cruelty charges stemming from the use of a jigger.

VRT chairman Judge John Bowman announced a two-year period of disqualification in relation the use of a jigger on three horses, Red Cardinal, Tosen Basil and Yogi, in the spring of 2018.

Former Weir stable employees Jarrod Mclean and Tyson Kermond were also banned on similar charges. McLean received an 18-month disqualification and Kermond six months.

Judge Bowman initially ordered that the trio’s penalties start from the date of the hearing, July 5, a decision their lawyers indicated they would challenge.

Weir’s counsel Ian Hill KC and Damian Sheales, who represented McLean and Kermond, said the penalties should commence from the expiry of any previous penalties in relation to the matter.

Weir was initially disqualified for four years on a charge of possession of a jigger, a penalty that expired early in 2023.

Weir has not been a licensed trainer since serving that initial ban but has operated a pre-training operation at Trevenson Park.

The latest disqualification means Weir will no longer be able to oversee that business but a seven-day stay of proceedings was granted so alternate arrangements could be made for the operation.