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Broc Tickle dropped by KTM following further drug tests | News

Testing of Red Bull Factory KTM rider Broc Tickle's B-Sample has confirmed the presence of 5-methylhexan-2-amine in the rider's system spelling the end of his contract with KTM.

Testing of an athlete’s B-Sample is carried out only after an A-sample comes back positive for a banned substance. The B-sample is tested to confirm the results of the initial testing.

KTM released the following statement addressing the findings;

MURRIETA, Calif. –­­ It was released today by the FIM that Broc Tickle’s initial positive test from San Diego Supercross was confirmed by the “B sample” test. As a result, KTM Motorsports hereby makes the painful decision to terminate its agreement with Tickle, effective immediately.

Roger De Coster, KTM Race Director SX/MX: “We’ve had a good relationship with Broc over the last six months and he was a great guy to work with. However, KTM’s strong company policy gives no room for any other solution but to terminate the contract. We wish Broc the best in the future.”

Tickle made this announcement via Instagram and vows to fight the allegations.

“Today, via e-mail, I was notified by the FIM that testing of my Sample B allegedly confirmed the alleged results of my Sample A test; however, as of today, neither the FIM or the laboratory has provided any supporting evidence for the alleged testing results.

“In addition, the FIM informed me that, Article 3.3.1 of the FIM Disciplinary and Arbitration Code, Mr. Anand Sashidharan has been appointed by the Director of the International Commission of Judges (CJI) as single judge to “deal” with case before the International Disciplinary Court (CDI). Mr. Sashidharan is the same person that presided over Mr. James Stewart’s proceedings.

“Now that my case has been formally identified with the CDI, perhaps the process will proceed in a professional manner so that I can finally begin to defend myself. Their system presumes my guilt and presumes their supremacy all while hindering, impeding, and delaying an athlete’s ability to discover evidence to argue against both.

“As I stated before, I have never, intentionally or negligently, ingested any prohibited substance, and specifically, the alleged substance I allegedly had in my system on February 10, 2018. I have never cheated, doped, or tried to better myself by taking the short way; nor, has anyone around me offered or provided to me any substance that is prohibited by the FIM Anti-Doping Code. I have worked too hard throughout my career to put my career at stake by taking any short cuts.

I will do everything possible to fight this allegation, clear my name, and continue with my career. Should anyone have any information that may be relevant to my case, please contact my attorney, Brian D. Harrison.”

Methylhexanamine has been sold under many names since 2006 and is regarded as a stimulant or energy-boosting dietary supplement. The reputation of the drug as a stimulant and having the ability to boost an athletes energy has landed it on the World Anti Doping Agency (WADA) anti-doping list. The drug has history within motorcycle racing, whereby in 2012, the FIM suspended Australian MotoGP rider Anthony West for 18 months after he also tested positive to Methylhexanamine.

The FIM is yet to provide an update regarding Tickle’s suspension following this recent development.