Image: MXN.

Motul MX Nationals MX2 title threat Nathan Crawford has moved to address persistent speculation that he has been caught up in the recent Australian Sports Anti-doping Authority (ASADA) saga that has rocked Australian motocross.

Teenage talent Crawford, who is currently tied for the 250 class points lead with two rounds remaining, has close ties with Moss twins Jake and Matt, who were provisionally suspended after anti-doping testing took place at Murray Bridge.

Crawford’s association with the Moss family has sparked ongoing – and since unfounded – rumours that he too could be under investigation after also being tested by ASADA in May, however he has now confirmed that anti-doping tests carried out have been returned as negative results. He has also declared that he has never taken PEDs.

“I would like to announce that I have been contacted by ASADA today,” 19-year-old Crawford revealed. “They have advised me that the samples taken from me as part of their routine drug testing regime were negative, as I always knew would be the case.

“I have never used and will not use performance enhancing drugs. I intend to get on with my career with the passion and enthusiasm I have always displayed and that you know me for. Thank you for your continuing support.”

An announcement from Motorcycling Australia (MA) is now imminent to confirm that Husqvarna-supported Crawford and CDR Yamaha’s Dean Ferris returned negative results on 22 May in South Australia, while also further clarifying the recordings of Matt and Jake Moss. Those four were the lone riders tested at that event.

The confirmation that Crawford has in fact officially been cleared will enable him to focus on the MX2 showdown across the next two weekends at Toowoomba and Coolum, while provisionally-suspended Jake and Matt Moss have indicated they are challenging the potential anti-doping rule violation (ADRV).