The Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) Tribunal has published its final decision in the case against the Iranian rider Abdulla Mahmood Abdulla Darban. Samples taken from the horse Lunatica, which finished fourth at the CEI1* in Doha, Qatar, on May 2, 2015, returned positive for two prohibited substances: propranolol and dexamethasone.

The beta blocker propranolol, which is used to lower the heart rate, is a banned substance under the FEI’s Equine Anti-Doping and Controlled Medication Rules. The corticosteroid dexamethasone is also a controlled medication.

The FEI Tribunal has imposed a two-year suspension on the athlete, effective immediately. The period of provisional suspension, which was effective from the date of notification (June 23, 2015) has been credited against the period of ineligibility. This means that the period of ineligibility will now run through to June 22, 2017.

The athlete, who is based in Qatar, is also fined CHF 2,000 and ordered to contribute CHF 1,500 towards the cost of the judicial procedure