A JOCKEY has been suspended from horseracing after giving a positive sample for what is understood to be cocaine.

Callum Rodriguez tested positive for a banned substance when riding at Southwell on February 27.

The rider, who won the 2017 Ebor on Nakeeta and is based

in Darlington with trainer

Michael Dods, has been in good form during the winter’s all-weather championships.

In a statement issued by the Professional Jockeys Association, Mr Rodriguez said: “Following my recent mistake, I would like to sincerely apologise to all the owners and trainers I have ridden for, in particular Mr Dods and everyone at Denton Hall, as well as my fellow jockeys in the weighing room.

“My one-off action was completely out of character and one that I deeply regret.”

The British Horseracing Authority has confirmed Rodriguez would be suspended while an investigation was ongoing.

Michael Dods has said he will help the rider make up for his mistake. Mr Dods said: “We are extremely disappointed with Callum. As a yard we operate a strict no-tolerance policy to drug taking, and each and every one of our staff are well aware of their responsibilities.”