The ongoing case involving racehorse NOTABLE has taken another serious turn after the National Horseracing Authority of Southern Africa confirmed the presence of prohibited substances in samples taken from the horse during an investigation linked to an earlier suspension.

According to an NHA statement issued on Monday, laboratory confirmatory testing detected both a local anaesthetic and a stimulant, together with its metabolites, in a urine specimen collected from NOTABLE on 24 April 2026. The specimen was taken when the horse, trained by Dominic Zaki, was presented for evaluation to determine whether a suspension under Rule 49.7 could be lifted.

The findings have now resulted in the suspension being reimposed with immediate effect by the NHA Chief Executive.

NOTABLE had already been withdrawn from Race 4 at Hollywoodbets Greyville on 13 May while the investigation was ongoing. The horse was also selected for further sampling on that date as part of the continuing inquiry.

Under the conditions imposed by the NHA, NOTABLE will not be permitted to race again until completing an 800-meter public gallop on a raceday to the satisfaction of an NHA veterinarian.

The authority further confirmed that an Inquiry will be opened into an alleged contravention of Rule 73.1.4, which relates to prohibited substances.