Oisin Murphy, Britain’s champion jockey, has been handed a three-month suspension after testing positive for cocaine following a race in France in July. The ban, imposed by French racing authorities France Galop, is shorter than those previously given to Frankie Dettori and Kieren Fallon for similar offences.
Murphy argued that the positive test resulted from environmental contamination, allegedly through sexual contact with a cocaine user. He provided hair sample results and expert testimony to support his claim. The suspension runs from 11 December to 11 March, allowing him to return for the start of the 2021 Flat jockeys’ championship.
In a statement, Murphy expressed relief at being cleared of intentional use but accepted the ban, apologising to owners, trainers, and supporters. He acknowledged he must avoid similar situations in future.
Separately, jockey Nathan Evans received a six-month ban after testing positive for a cocaine metabolite. His suspension, backdated to 27 August, will keep him out until 26 February 2021.
At Dundalk racecourse on Friday, a fatal incident occurred when Clonard Abbey fell during a race, bringing down Capablanca. Both jockeys escaped injury, but Clonard Abbey suffered a fatal injury.
