Subject: APPEAL – Trainer Michael Francis vs. First Instance Tribunal
January 28, 2022

On Thursday 27th January, 2022, the Commission heard an appeal submitted by Trainer Michael Francis against the decision of the First Instance Tribunal to warn him off for a period of six (6) months and the imposition of a fine of Seventy-Five Thousand Dollars ($ 75,000.00). This penalty was in relation to the positive findings of the prohibited substance Propoxyphene (class 4 substances) returned by the horse LUANA after it raced on the 9th November, 2019.

After carefully reviewing the evidence and submissions made by the appellant Trainer Francis, including Mr. Francis’ plea for leniency, the Commission ruled that;

1. the rulings of the First Instance Tribunal be upheld. Therefore, Trainer Francis’ warning-off period commences on the 26th February 2022; And
2. the fine of Seventy-five Thousand dollars ($75,000.00) be paid within sixty (60) days following this hearing.