Frankie Dettori failed drugs test at Longchamp

Frankie Dettori, one of the outstanding jockeys of his generation, failed a drugs test when riding at Longchamp in France in September, his lawyer announced on Tuesday. The legendary Italian rider's positive result will be the subject of a hearing conducted by France Galop, French racing's governing body, in Paris next week. UK-based Dettori's solicitor, Christopher Stewart-Moore, in a statement to the British Press Association, reported: "On behalf of Frankie Dettori I can confirm that, as a consequence of a positive test at Longchamp on September 16, 2012, he will be the subject of an inquiry by the Medical Committee of France Galop (the French horse racing authority) next week. "In compliance with, and out of respect for, the regulations of France Galop, he will not be commenting further until the France Galop procedures have been completed." No details of the substance in question were forthcoming. The 41-year-old Dettori had four rides at the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe trials meeting on September 16. He rode Joshua Tree to finish third in the Prix Foy, Sarah Lynx who trailed home last in the Prix Vermeille, then Farhh who was beaten a head in the Prix du Moulin and Willing Foe, another Godolphin charge, who came in third in the Prix Gladiateur. Tuesday's news comes three weeks after Dettori's split with Sheikh Mohammed's Godolphin operation after an 18-year association.