Irish jockey Pat Smullen's upcoming marriage to trainer Frances Crowley could mean a change in the rules of Irish racing.

Under the current regulations, a jockey is not allowed to ride against any horse trained by his wife. If the rule stays in place, Smullen would have to forfeit mounts trained by his regular employer, leading trainer Dermot Weld. The conflict is likely to occur often enough that Weld would hire a new main jockey.

The rule is expected to be changed in time for next year's flat racing season, the London Times reports. Another rule that apparently will be altered in the one that prohibits a jockey from riding against a horse he also trains.