The imminent return of horse trainer Michael Costa to the Queensland racing scene has been significantly disrupted by a 12-month disqualification for a cobalt offence issued by the Emirates Racing Authority (ERA). Costa had recently returned to the Gold Coast in April after a nearly four-year tenure as head trainer for the Jebel Ali Stables in Dubai, where he achieved considerable success.

His preparations to re-establish his career in southeast Queensland, including active participation in the Magic Millions yearling sales, have now been cast into uncertainty due to this ruling. The ban stems from a pre-race swab taken on March 15 at Jebel Ali, which detected elevated cobalt levels in his horse, Saleett, exceeding international benchmarks.

Cobalt Offence and ERA Ruling

According to the ERA's findings, finalised on June 3, the charge against Costa related to the use of a custom feed containing higher concentrations of cobalt. This feed was reportedly not documented in the horse's medication logbook. The ERA stewards concluded that Costa had indeed administered this feed.

The ruling also noted that while Saleett was exposed to various feeds and supplements containing cobalt, including a custom formulation from Mr. Costa, the exact levels of exposure may not have been fully known to the trainer at the time. Despite this acknowledgement, the 12-month disqualification was imposed.

Appeal Window Closed

With the ERA's seven-day appeals period now expired, Michael Costa has no further recourse for review within the United Arab Emirates' racing jurisdiction. This situation has reportedly left him shocked and devastated, severely impacting his application for a licence with the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC).

QRIC chief Kim Kelly confirmed that the commission has established procedures to thoroughly assess all incoming licence applications. While not disclosing specific applicants, Kelly stated that "when an application has been received, there are certain processes that have to be undertaken to ensure that the licence is able to be properly considered."

Homecoming Plans Delayed

Costa had returned to Australia with his family prior to the ERA's findings being made public. The timing of the ban adds a difficult layer to his personal and professional transition, especially given his prior discussions about family safety concerns in the Middle East. What was intended as a fresh start on the Gold Coast is now at risk of being delayed by at least a year, casting a significant shadow over his career.

The trainer stated he was unable to comment publicly on the case, indicating he was still finalising matters in Dubai.