TEEENAGE jockey star Benoit de la Sayette – dubbed the next Frankie Dettori – is set to return to the saddle after his cocaine ban.
The 19-year-old shot into the big time with a win in Doncaster’s famous Lincoln Handicap last season.
De La Sayette is expected to return at Wolverhampton on Saturday
He was the first apprentice employed by Newmarket powerhouse trainer John Gosden since the legendary Dettori.
But the teenager soon got in hot water when a video emerged of the rider at a party where cocaine was being used.
The jockey admitted to cocaine use at a BHA disciplinary hearing but denied the video was taken on the day of his win in the Lincoln.
He was slapped with a six month ban but has taken longer to return and he’s made an apology on the eve of his comeback.
He said in a statement: “I’m very sorry for what happened, but feel I’ve learned from the experience.
“I’m especially grateful for all the support given to me by my family and also my employers, John and Thady Gosden, as well as the wider Clarehaven team.
“I’d also like to thank the PJA (Professional Jockeys Association) for all of their invaluable help.
“My agent Paul Clarke is another who has given me much appreciated support, as has Tony Rushmer from RushmerPR.
“I now want to repay all the faith shown in me by performing well, focusing on the job I’ve always longed to do.”
De la Sayette is expected be back in the saddle at Wolverhampton on Saturday evening.
