Speedway rocked by failed drug test

Seven-time State champion Ryan Farrell has apologised to fans and conceded he was living in denial after failing a drug test during round 11 of World Series Sprintcars at the Quit Bunbury Speedway on Friday.

Farrell, who drives for a Bunbury sprintcar team, was immediately excluded from the event and stripped of his speedway licence.

He will face a Speedway Australia tribunal where he could face a two-year ban and $2000 fine.

In a statement, Farrell confirmed the positive test and said he had been dealing with depression and drug use for a long time.

“Over the last month for the first time in my life I have sought outside help and had committed to professional counselling, ” he said.

“As part of that I seriously contemplated giving up racing prior to the end of the season, but, rightfully or wrongly, I love racing and I had commitments to the team, loyal sponsors and fans to see the season out.”

Farrell was adamant he had not taken performance enhancing or recreational drugs while behind the wheel.

Speedway Australia competitions and operations manager Paul Trengove was unable to confirm the substance, but did say it was “prohibited” and not necessarily “perform- ance enhancing.”

“When we test, it’s for substances that could impair a driver’s judgment, ” he said.

Trengove said Speedway Australia had a “zero tolerance” policy for prohibited substances and was determined to maintain the sport’s integrity and safety.

Bunbury Speedway general manager Andrew Roberts said the track endorsed drug testing and any efforts to keep the sport clean.

Farrell had been in hot form this season, winning nine of 11 races.

He last week blasted impressive victories in both the Manjimup and Albany WSS rounds.