Murphy shocked to fail a drugs test
CHAMPION jockey Oisin Murphy has vowed to do “everything that I can” to prove his innocence after testing positive for metabolites of cocaine at a meeting in France earlier in the year.
Murphy was tested by France Galop at Chantilly on July 19, where he partnered The Lir Jet to finish second in the Group Two Prix Robert Papin.
The rider was informed in August of his positive result and subsequently organised a hair sample test, which returned a negative result, according to the Professional Jockeys Association.
A statement issued on his behalf by the PJA said: “On July 19, 2020 Oisin Murphy was selected for urine testing at Chantilly racecourse. On August 19 he was informed by France Galop that his ‘A’ sample had returned positive for metabolites of cocaine.
“On the same day, Oisin organised for an independent laboratory to undertake hair sampling to prove his innocence. The hair sample was taken on August 22, with the collection process filmed by the laboratory for authenticity.
“The laboratory analysed multiple 0.3cm segments of Oisin’s hair and on August 26 the results of the hair test returned completely negative for metabolites of cocaine, which was entirely expected as Oisin has never taken cocaine.
“These results have been shared with France Galop and he awaits the results of France Galop’s analysis of his ‘B’ sample.”
Murphy maintains his innocence, adding: “I have never taken cocaine in my life and I will do everything that I can to provemy innocence.
“I want to thank those who are supporting me and in the meantime I want to keep riding winners and focus on my career.”
Murphy later admitted his relief the case was now public knowledge, although he would have preferred to have waited until the results of both tests were returned before commenting.
He told Racing TV: “I had to release a statement today as the story had got round, but it is a weight off my shoulders.
“I’d been riding to the best of my ability and had a great week last week, but something needed to be said today - and I’m pleased it’s out there.
“I’ve got to trust in France Galop and try to carry on as normal. A lot of important things are going on in the world at the moment, and this is crucial in my career, but it’s out of my control.”