Dean Gallagher has failed in his appeal against a six-month drugs ban handed out by French racing authorities.

But the jump jockey, who tested positive for cocaine on three separate occasions in France last Spring, is entitled to a second appeal.

Louis Romanet, director-general of France Galop, said: "The decision to ban Mr Gallagher taken by the France Galop stewards has been confirmed.

"There is a further appeal possible at a superior court in France Galop for anyone who is banned for more than a month. Mr Gallagher has 10 days to decide on a second appeal."

Severity

Gallagher, who was contesting the severity of the ban rather than the ban itself, is determined to get fit for race-riding and is currently undergoing an intensive rehabilitation course for his drug problem.

"He will have to prove his fitness to us before he can ride in France again next year," said Romanet.

"But we understand Mr Gallagher is doing his best to get cured and we wish him well."

Since February, Gallagher has ridden in 52 races in France, winning nine times and collecting a total of �291,018 in prize money.