John Francome Sparks Laughter with Controversial Joke on New Podcast

Horse racing has gained a new platform for discussion and entertainment with the launch of The Paddock, a weekly podcast that features prominent voices in the racing world. The inaugural episode, released on October 12, 2023, features a candid conversation with legendary jockey John Francome. The panel, which includes hosts Oli Bell, Nick Luck, Rishi Persad, and Tom Stanley, delves into a variety of topics, including the current state of the racing industry, noteworthy jockeys, and behind-the-scenes experiences from television racing.

A highlight of the episode comes when Francome recounts a joke he made that unintentionally sparked outrage in Ireland. He shared a story about a segment called The Picture Puzzle, which had garnered attention from viewers in Ireland who felt excluded from participating. Francome explained, “We used to have this thing called The Picture Puzzle and people used to write in every week and say, ‘We can’t take part, we live in Ireland.’”

After a technical setup was arranged for viewers in Ireland to enter the competition, Francome jokingly added, “If you live in Ireland and you know how to use a telephone, this is the number for you to ring!” This offhand remark led to a flurry of complaints, prompting television executive Michael Grade to demand an immediate apology from Francome.

Francome humorously recounted the experience, stating, “It was a joke. No harm. What a load of fuss about nothing.” His light-hearted reflection on the incident resonated with listeners, showcasing the spirit of The Paddock, which aims to provide an unfiltered look into the world of horse racing.

The podcast seeks to blend humor with insightful commentary, as evidenced by Francome’s story. The lively discussion highlights the camaraderie among racing personalities and their willingness to share both serious insights and entertaining anecdotes.

Listeners can catch the first episode of The Paddock now available on YouTube and across various podcast platforms, offering fans a chance to explore the rich narratives of horse racing from those who have shaped its history. With its engaging format, the podcast promises to be a significant addition to the racing community’s media landscape.