'Issue with France Gallop is a personal one for Kieren' says statement

The statement sanctioned by Coolmore boss John Magnier made a brief reference to the alleged drugs episode, noting that the issue was “a personal one for Kieren”.

The full statement to the Racing Post on Monday night read: “This has been an absolutely terrible time for Kieren. “He has been subjected to a trial, which could have cost him his liberty; a trial which he clearly should never have been subjected to.

“He lost his right to earn a living in Britain for more than 18 months, and now finds himself threatened with a suspension relating to an incident at Deauville in August. “The issue with France Galop is a personal one for Kieren and therefore inappropriate for us to comment on.”

Earlier, when Coolmore spokesman Richard Henry was asked if Fallon faced the sack, he replied that as the former champion did not have a retainer for this year, the question was “irrelevant”.

Reported by Rodney Masters for the Racing Post Dec 11 2007