Image: Supplied.

Geico Honda’s Christian Craig has released a statement regarding an alleged adverse anti-doping finding that was discovered in a sample taken from him at the 2018 Daytona supercross, revealing the lower-level categorisation of the substance has allowed him to continue racing this season.

Craig, who was made aware of the alleged adverse sample in January this year, has declared his innocence and believes ingredients in a supplement he was consuming were contaminated with the substance Heptaminol.

Heptaminol is a Specified Stimulant prohibited for in-competition use under the World Anti-Doping Code, which is adopted by the FIM that sanctions the Monster Energy AMA and World Supercross Championship.

“I wanted to give an update on what’s been going on this year,” Craig said in a statement. “On 23 January, 2019, I received an email from the FIM stating that an adverse finding was discovered from Daytona, 10 March, 2018. Most importantly, I never have or would knowingly take a banned substance.

“The FIM has agreed that they do not believe I intentionally ingested the substance. Of course, that doesn’t take away from the fact it was there. There are two levels of prohibited substances – one would immediately suspend a rider and the other would not. Because the substance I tested positive for was on the lesser of the two lists, I’ve been able to keep racing. From the start, there was a mutual agreement between all parties to keep this confidential until it was further resolved.

“But as people keep asking ‘what’s wrong with you?’, I feel I need to update you guys. My adverse finding was for a trace amount of Heptaminol, a drug I had never heard of till now. I have spent the last six months testing myself and everything I’ve ever used to find the source. With a lot of research, I am convinced that my positive test came from a contaminated supplement.

“I have learned many supplements include ingredients that are sourced from all around the world. Which makes it nearly impossible to guarantee non-contaminated ingredients, especially a year later. This situation has taken a huge toll on me mentally and has made it nearly impossible to clear my mind to go racing this year. I pride myself on always being honest with my fans. Knowing I’m a dad and role model to others, it kills me to even be in this position.

“I cannot comment anymore and respectfully decline any interviews on this subject until it’s resolved, which should be within the next 30 days or so. I hope this provides a better understanding on why I haven’t been myself this year. It takes a huge weight off my shoulders being able to share this much for now. Thanks for your continued support!”

Craig is currently positioned 15th in the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship 250MX standings after sitting out High Point’s two motos following a heavy crash in practice.