Motorcycling Australia, in partnership with SureTest, will undertake its first ever screening program for illicit drugs on national support program riders at the 2013 FIM World Superbike Championship at Phillip Island this weekend, 22-24 February.

Dr Peter Lewis, SureTest managing director, said the new partnership with Motorcycling Australia will see 20 riders undergo urine testing using the new drug screening ‘CupLab’.

“CupLab screens for illicit substances including amphetamines, benzodiazepines, cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamines and opiates. It provides instant results in a secure, self-contained unit,” he said.

Claire Lawrence, Motorcycling Australia’s national risk and compliance manager, said riders would also be educated on the risks of illicit drug use.

“Motorcycling Australia is committed to maximizing the safety and wellbeing of our riders and officials, and this education and screening program aims to ensure we provide the safest possible environment,” she said.

SureTest has previously worked with boxing sporting bodies to screen for drug use for world title fights.