QRIC Media release: Ensure supplements are free from cobalt salts

13 February 2025

Queensland Racing Integrity Commission’s (QRIC) Stewards have recently seen an increased number of rule breaches for the possession of supplements containing cobalt salts.

QRIC Stewards are reminding all racing participants that under both The Australian Rules of Racing and Australia Harness Racing Rules, they are prohibited from possessing and administering, attempting to administer, or being party to the administration of products containing cobalt salts to any licensed racehorse.

A typical daily diet of a racehorse meets their daily dietary cobalt requirement, and there is no nutritional, medical or welfare justification for the administration of cobalt by injection to a horse at any time. Cobalt does, however, act as a haematopoietic agent which stimulates the production of blood cells and can enhance athletic performance.

QRIC Deputy Commissioner Kim Kelly said racing participants must not use products containing cobalt salts on licensed racing animals.

“We recognise that while products containing cobalt salts can be purchased over the counter or online, licensed participants in standardbred racing are restricted from using cobalt salt-based products,” he said.

Participants whose horses are administered products containing cobalt salts, or who are found in possession of products containing cobalt salts, will be referred to the QRIC Stewards for inquiry.

Mr Kelly said individual participants have a personal responsibility to ensure they are adhering with all Rules regarding race day treatment and supplement use.

“Participants are personally responsible for ensuring they understand and fulfil their obligations under the Rules of Racing, and the QRIC Stewards will not excuse the possession or administration of cobalt salts by those who purport to be unaware of this rule,” he said.

The QRIC has a responsibility to uphold the Rules of Racing and, in doing so, is dedicated to preserving the integrity of the racing industry.

ENDS.

Media Contact:   0438 544 628 | communication@qric.qld.gov.au