Holly Willoughby was branded “sick” by fans who criticised her for cheering on a horse named Dashing Willoughby at Royal Ascot.
Jockey Oisin Murphy rode to victory in the Queen’s Vase on Wednesday afternoon to secure his first win of this year’s annual race meet.
Willoughby cheered on the horse ahead of the race, posting: “Come on Dashing Willoughby!!!! 3:05 Ascot.”
Minutes later she was celebrating the win, commenting: “Oh my goodness!!!! Can’t believe it!!!! Huge congratulations to Dashing Willoughby and the team… that was so exciting …”
Some fans were “disappointed in [Willoughby] supporting this” as they branded the sport “cruel”.
Another wrote: “Sick sick sick!!!!!! All these amazing beautiful animals are dying so you can have more money. So glad I’m not like you…..”
A third posted: “Not ethical. Racing is cruel.”
Rochelle Humes celebrated Willoughby’s “amazing” win as well as her sister who backed the horse, commenting: “I had a tenner on to win!!! First time ever in a bookies! Woooohoooo.”
It's not only Royal Ascot that Willoughby has been following, but also Love Island. The This Morning presenter is a huge fan of the show and recently criticised Joe Garratt for telling Lucie Donlan, who he was coupled with, to ease back on her friendship with Tommy Fury.
Willoughby said there is “no way” he should have a say in her friendships in the villa, and believes his “uncool” behaviour is a result of his own insecurities.
