Top jockey Marco Ghiani being investigated by BHA after allegedly failing drugs test
TOP jockey Marco Ghiani is under investigation after allegedly failing a drugs test.
The Italian, 23, was stood down by stewards at Brighton yesterday just MINUTES before he was due to take the first of two rides.
He was replaced by fellow riders Luke Catton and Callum Shepherd, with the stewards’ report simply stating: “BHA consider Ghiani unfit.”
It is believed the test took place last week and the next step will involve the results of a ‘B’ sample.
There are a number of reasons for a positive test, including medication.
A BHA spokesperson said: “We cannot comment as this is now the subject of an ongoing investigation.”
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The Professional Jockeys Association also declined to say anything while Ghiani’s agent Shashi Righton would only say: “I can’t comment because I don’t know the facts.”
Jockeys are subject to random drug and alcohol testing by BHA officials.
The entry level ban for a failed test is two months, though it can rise to six.
Several high-profile jockeys have been banned for positive drugs in recent years, including Oisin Murphy and Frankie Dettori who both got six months.
The most common form of drug testing is a urine test, which takes several days to process.
Popular Ghiani had a breakthrough season in 2021, winning over 100 races and finishing as champion apprentice.
He has enjoyed several big wins, including at Royal Ascot on Real World for Godolphin, and has 64 winners in the bag this term.