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The Horseracing Integrity & Welfare Unit (HIWU) has released its statistics for the second quarter of 2026, revealing 103 adverse analytical findings out of 18,538 sample collections. This figure translates to a positive rate of 0.6%, highlighting the unit's ongoing vigilance in upholding the integrity of the sport. Further detailed reports are accessible on the official HIWU website, providing transparency into their operations and findings. The unit's extensive efforts involved testing 11,636 distinct covered horses and gathering samples from 5,877 races across 19 states, operating under the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority's (HISA) Anti-Doping and Medication Control (ADMC) Program.

The majority of these positive results, specifically 83.5% or 86 instances, were attributed to controlled medications, with banned substances accounting for the remaining 16.5% (17 instances). Blood samples were the primary source of detection, yielding 93 findings, followed by urine with 9, and notably, one hair sample which marked the first such positive reported this year. Methocarbamol emerged as the most frequently detected substance with 14 findings, a significant increase from the previous quarter. Other commonly found substances included Acepromazine with 11 and Phenylbutazone with 9, though the latter showed a decrease from its earlier prevalence. Among banned substances, Methamphetamine (8) and mephentermine/phentermine (6) were the most common. The report also noted caffeine as an atypical finding, with two instances in blood samples that were subsequently confirmed as adverse. The resolution times for test results remained within program guidelines, with post-race tests averaging 6.4 business days against a 10-day standard, and other sample types also meeting their respective targets.

Geographically, Pennsylvania recorded the highest number of adverse findings with 20, primarily from Parx and Penn National. Florida and New York each reported 13 positives, while Washington had 9, all from Emerald Downs, and Iowa reported 8, all at Prairie Meadows. Conversely, Minnesota, New Mexico, and Virginia reported no positive cases. A notable shift from the first quarter saw hot spots like Tampa Bay Downs and Turf Paradise experience a considerable reduction in adverse findings, demonstrating the dynamic nature of compliance and enforcement within the horseracing community.

These findings reinforce the critical role of stringent anti-doping regulations in maintaining a level playing field and ensuring the welfare of equine athletes. The continuous monitoring and timely reporting by HIWU are essential steps towards fostering a culture of fairness and integrity in horseracing, promoting trust among participants and the public alike.