Oh Frankie!

The French racing authorities (France Galop) have confirming that Frankie Dettori has failed a drug test after a ride at Longchamp on September 16. It’s being reported by various newspapers that Frankie tested positive for cocaine. However, this is just speculation on the part of the press, the only thing we know for sure is Frankie tested positive for at least one of the 142 substances on France-Galop’s banned list.

A France Galop statement read: ‘Following yesterday’s examination of the file and after having duly notified the jockey Lanfranco Dettori of its decision, the Medical Committee has temporarily suspended the said jockey from riding in races in France, based on medical grounds.

David Yeats puts up a passionate defence for Frankie in his Daily Mirror column “A jockey of his talent and experience won’t be left to kick his heels on the sidelines when big pots – and even bigger stallion fees – are at stake.” It’s a thoughtful piece and makes some good points regarding the tough year that Dettori has suffered… read the full article here.