British horseracing is set to introduce world-leading testing for gene doping ahead of the new Flat season on turf, aiming to safeguard the sport’s integrity. While there is no current evidence of gene doping being used in training or competition, advancements in technology have made it more accessible. Experts warn that genetic modifications could be used to enhance muscle mass or boost red blood cell production, achieving similar effects to anabolic steroids.
The new testing programme, developed over six years at a cost of approximately £2 million, will screen both National Hunt and Flat racing horses for transgenes—foreign genetic material introduced into the body via vectors. The technology is designed to detect commonly used vectors, with provisions for updates as new techniques emerge. Cooperation with international racing jurisdictions, including Australia, France, Japan, and Hong Kong, further strengthens the initiative, particularly for high-profile events like Royal Ascot in June.
Despite the theoretical nature of the current threat, the move reflects concerns stemming from past doping scandals, such as the steroid controversy involving a high-profile trainer in 2013 and a major doping case in the United States in 2020. These incidents significantly impacted the sport’s reputation, demonstrating the importance of proactive measures. The investment in gene doping detection is seen as a necessary step in maintaining trust in the industry.
Meanwhile, the upcoming Lincoln Handicap signals the beginning of the Flat racing season. Wathnan Racing, a rising force in international Flat racing, has two strong contenders in the race. Their top jockey has chosen to ride Midnight Gun, but Native Warrior is also well-positioned for success. Jockey decisions often influence betting markets, yet past races have shown that these choices do not always dictate outcomes.
Trainer Karl Burke, whose stable has gained prominence in recent years, has another strong runner in Thunder Run, the narrow market leader. However, Native Warrior’s performance at Goodwood last summer, where he finished a close second in a competitive race, stands out as one of the strongest pieces of form in the field. His prior efforts at Royal Ascot and against top-tier competition further enhance his credentials.
In other races, betting trends will likely be crucial in assessing juvenile contenders in Doncaster’s 1.15 race, with Kamakameleon offering pedigree appeal. At 1.50, Promethean returns as a gelding after struggling in his final three-year-old run, making him one to watch. Over at Kempton, Kamboo appears well suited to the all-weather track at 2.05, particularly with a top jockey booked for the ride.
Iberian, a Champagne Stakes winner as a two-year-old, looks to revive his form in Doncaster’s 2.25 after a disappointing three-year-old campaign, while Mount Atlas stands out at Kempton’s 2.40 following an impressive handicap debut last season. Point Lynas, the only frontrunner in the Doncaster 3.00, could take advantage of race conditions, and at Kempton 3.15, Soprano sets a solid standard in a competitive Listed event.
With racing authorities taking a firm stance on integrity and the season opening with a series of exciting contests, British racing continues to evolve both on and off the track.
