I get the occasional front runner when I've instructed to race handy BUT I think that may happen if the field is full of closers and I just get left in front and the AI reads it as front runner. I could be wrong on that point.
Otherwise I have had no issues with jockey commands - no running as closer when I commanded handy etc.

I totally agree 100%.

Jockey instructions for me most times are fairly simple - late runners ~ Don't lead/Prefer inside. The US tight turns mean you need to save ground. The drawback is traffic and getting DQ'd for making space to run through. Speed horses I just tell the jock to prefer inside.

For a fun challenge with a monster who totally outclasses the others I may choose - Miss break/drop out early/Don't lead/Challenge later/Don't go clear ~ just to see if they can overcome the obstacles.