Trainer Ernst Oertel has been disqualified for four months after two of his horses were administered the banned substance ibuprofen in the United Arab Emirates.

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The horses involved were Razeen (FR), won won the first race at Sharjah on November 1 and Mell De Piboul (FR), who raced at Yas Island, Abu Dhabi on 16 November.

Evidence was taken from Oertel, Veterinarian Dr. Louise Barbesgaard, Equine Forensic Unit Chief Analyst Dr. Peter Albert and ERA Head Veterinary Officer Dr. David Sykes.

Mr. Oertel pleaded guilty to two charges under the provisions of ERA Rule of Racing 95AAA 2.

In considering penalty the Stewards took into account the following:
• Mr. Oertel’s guilty pleas.
• The seriousness of these matters.
• Mr. Oertel’s disciplinary record which shows that Mr. Oertel had previous breaches of the prohibited substance rules on 10 December 2013 and 29 January 2014.
• The nature of the prohibited substance detected that being a therapeutic substance.
• The personal circumstances of Mr. Oertel.

Mr. Oertel has been disqualified for a period of four months on each charge effective immediately. The Stewards further directed that these terms of disqualification are to be served concurrently which means Mr. Oertel’s disqualifications will expire at midnight 15 April 2015.

It has been a tough few months for Oertel, who broke a leg last season and as a result contracted acute septicaemia.

This summer he required immediate surgery to his leg, which resulted in amputation at the knee.