Jack Mitchell will have an enforced spell of six months on the sidelines after testing positive to a metabolite of cocaine at Newmarket.
Six month ban for positive test
Jack Mitchell will have an enforced spell of six months on the sidelines after testing positive to a metabolite of cocaine at Newmarket in May.
The rider appeared before the disciplinary panel of the British Horseracing Authority for a hearing into the sample, which had been found to contain benzoylecgonine, a diagnostic metabolite of cocaine and a banned substance.
In a statement issued on Wednesday through his solicitor Christopher Stewart-Moore, Mitchell, 22, said: "I accept the findings of the BHA's Medical Committee unreservedly.
"I acknowledge that my actions which led to me testing positive for a metabolite of cocaine were unacceptable as well as foolish.
Continued Support
"I am extremely sorry for letting down those trainers who have supported me in the past and who continue to support me.
"I am also remorseful for the anguish that my actions have caused to my family and I am grateful for their support and understanding throughout this difficult time.
"I would like to reassure everyone in racing that this was a one-off occurrence and that it will never happen again.
"I have been tested at the racecourse by BHA testers on many occasions before and since the positive reading with negative results in each case.
"I have the support of my family, trainers and friends to go forward to next season with a positive note."
Mitchell will be suspended from October 7 to April 6 inclusive.
