RV Stewards' Report - Matthew Brown

Racing Victoria (RV) Stewards have received a report from Racing Analytical Services Limited (RASL) confirming that a prohibited substance has been detected in a sample collected from the Matthew Brown trained racehorse, Rip ‘N’ Rip.

The report relates to a post-race urine sample taken from Rip ‘N’ Rip after running in the Sheahan Plumbing BM64 Handicap over 1300 metres (Race 7) at Bendigo Racecourse on 13 July 2025, where the gelding finished first.

RASL reported that the urine sample was shown to contain Formestane and its metabolite, 4-Hydroxytestosterone, and 6a-hydroxyandrost-4-ene 3, 17-dione, which are prohibited substances in accordance with the Australian Rules of Racing. 

Formestane is an aromatase inhibitor and an anti-estrogenic substance whilst 4-Hydroxytestosterone is a derivative of testosterone and is classified as an anabolic steroid.  Formestane is not registered or approved for use in animals by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA).

The Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory (ARFL) also reported that it had detected Formestane and its metabolite, 4-Hydroxytestosterone, and 6a-Hydroxyandrost-4-ene3, 17-dione within the reserve portion of the urine sample.

RV Stewards initially informed Mr Brown of the irregularity on 13 August 2025. Mr Brown has since been informed of the confirmatory findings and that the Stewards are continuing with their investigation.

Conclusion

The Stewards’ investigation into the sample referred to within this report remains ongoing. As per standard practice, a thorough investigative process is being conducted without a set timeline.