Steroid found in sample of banned US sprinter Tyson Gay

Details emerge of substance that led to ban

Tyson Gay celebrates after winning the Men's 100 m event during the Diamond League Athletics meeting (AFP/Getty images)

American sprinter Tyson Gay's failed drugs test was for a banned steroid, it has emerged.

Gay confirmed last month that he had failed a doping test but the substance that he tested positive for was not disclosed.

According to extracts of a letter from the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) obtained by the BBC, the 31-year-old's samples showed adverse findings for a banned steroid - which would mean a two-year ban.

The letter, dated July 23, states: "Using the carbon isotope ratio analysis it reported that the sample had an adverse analytical finding reflecting values that are consistent with the administration of a steroid of exogenous (external) nature."

Gay tested positive for samples provided at the United States' World Championship trials in June and at an out-of-competition test in May.

Last month Gay said he had been "let down" by someone he trusted.

The sprinter said: "I don't have a sabotage story... I basically put my trust in someone and was let down.

"I hope I am able to run again, but I will take whatever punishment I get like a man."

USADA responded to Gay's disclosure by releasing a statement that read: "In response to Mr Gay's statements, USADA appreciates his approach to handling this situation and his choice to voluntarily remove himself from competition while the full facts surrounding his test are evaluated."

PA