Dean Gallagher has failed in his appeal against a six-month ban meted out by the French racing authorities for failing drug tests, it was revealed today.
The jump jockey, who tested positive to cocaine on three separate occasions in France this spring, did not attend an appeal hearing at Deauville last Tuesday.
However, after deliberating Gallagher`s appeal at a meeting today the French stewards confirmed the suspension.
Louis Romanet, director-general of France Galop, said: 'The decision to ban Mr Gallagher taken by the France Galop stewards has been confirmed.
'However, there is a further appeal possible at a superior court in France Galop for anyone who is banned for more than a month. Mr Gallagher has 10 days to decide on a second appeal.'
Gallagher, who is banned worldwide until the end of the year, is determined to get fit for race-riding and is currently undergoing an intensive rehabilitation course for his drug problem.
'He will have to prove his fitness to us before he can ride in France again next year,' added Romanet.
'But we understand Mr Gallagher is doing his best to get cured and we wish him well.'
Since February Gallagher has ridden in 52 races in France for nine wins and 29 places for a total of #291,018 in prize money.
