Statement from SBK ambassador Sean Levey

Jockey and SBK ambassador Sean Levey has spoken out after it was confirmed that he had falsely tested positive for a banned substance last week and has now been cleared to return to riding.

Levey was stood down by the BHA last Wednesday and the following day was forced to miss the final of the Racing League, in which he led the jockey standings by 59 points and was a clear favourite to win the £20,000 bonus for leading rider.

Levey had initially tested positive for amphetamine from a saliva test and immediately requested a urine sample, which came back negative six days later.

Speaking to SBK, Levey said:

“Although I am happy to be back riding later this week, it’s hard not to feel aggrieved at what has happened to me the last few days. Some might say I’ve been unlucky with the false positive happening just before the Racing League final, but I sincerely hope that there are lessons to be learned from this and that similar things don’t happen to jockeys in the future.

“I appreciate the support I’ve received from trainers, fellow jockeys and my sponsor SBK throughout the past week. I look forward to getting back in the saddle this weekend.”

Levey will be speaking further on Sky Sports Racing at around 4.10pm today.

Levey has won 58 races in Britain this year, as well as a French Group 1 success aboard Aristia in the Prix Jean Romanet last month.