Several industry leaders have issued statements regarding their support for the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) announcing that they will partner with the Drug Free Sport International (DFS) as the organization to develop HISA’s Anti-Doping and Medication Control enforcement agency.
Statement from Breeders’ Cup Limited
Breeders’ Cup strongly supports HISA entering into an agreement with Drug Free Sport International (DFS) to build their independent Anti-Doping and Medication Control enforcement agency. DFS has a long track record of success in drug testing and enforcement at the highest levels of professional sports, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, PGA Tour, LPGA, NASCAR and NCAA, and they will help HISA protect the health and safety of equine athletes and enhance the integrity of racing. We are greatly encouraged by the formation of the new Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit (HIWU) and by the exemplary Advisory Council chosen to lead it. From its beginnings, HISA has shown professionalism and leadership, and today the Authority continues to take critically important steps forward in fulfilling its mission. We look forward to the law’s full implementation in 2023.
Statement from The Jockey Club
The Jockey Club applauds today’s announcement from the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA), which named Drug Free Sport International (DFS) as the organization to develop HISA’s Anti-Doping and Medication Control enforcement agency. DFS has an impressive track record in handling drug testing management in a range of sports, and its partnership with HISA is another critical step toward creating a gold standard of integrity and welfare in Thoroughbred racing. The Jockey Club has believed for years that reforms in safety, integrity, and welfare are necessary for the sustainability of our sport. We look forward to following the progress of DFS and supporting the efforts of DFS and HISA with any resources we can provide.
Statement from Keeneland
“Keeneland stands united with HISA in protecting equine athletes and raising the standard for integrity in racing and supports HISA’s decision to engage the Drug Free Sport International (DFS) to operationalize their Anti-Doping and Medication Control Program. With the expertise of DFS in drug testing and enforcement in sports, we believe today’s announcement is a leap forward for HISA and the equine industry.”
Breeders’ Cup Press Release, The Jockey Club and Keeneland Press Releases
