Racehorses to be tested for gene doping

Racehorses in Britain are to be tested for gene doping as part of a new initiative.

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) is to expand its anti-doping programme after investing nearly £2m on extensive research into detection methods.

It says there is no evidence gene doping has been used in racing, but wants to protect against future risks of corruption.

Gene doping includes the use of genetic or cellular manipulation of DNA, via gene editing or transfer techniques, in an attempt to enhance athletic performance or aid recovery following exercise.

The BHA has supported scientific research at the LGC laboratory in Fordham, near Newmarket - with input from the Centre for Racehorse Studies - which has developed the capability to identify where gene doping has occurred.

Testing will be incorporated immediately into the BHA's routine raceday and out-of-competition sampling processes.

"Testing for gene doping is a significant step forward for British racing and reinforces our commitment to safeguarding the welfare of our horses, protecting the thoroughbred breed and integrity of our competition," said BHA acting chief executive Brant Dunshea.

"Scientific and technological advancements mean that genetic manipulation poses a very real risk to horse racing and the essence of the thoroughbred breed.

"It's essential that we are proactive in this space, and through investing in this cutting-edge research we now have the technological capabilities to detect and deter any attempts to exploit nefarious techniques that could give horses an unfair advantage."