Kieren Fallon may be facing a lengthy ban after his failed drugs test in France – but suggestions his career could be over are way off the mark.

This latest episode gives the six-time champion jockey another chance to use his uncanny ability for proving critics wrong.

Despite some doubt over his current employment, there are plenty of precedents to show that even in his mid-40s, Fallon has several winning years left in him.

The Irish rider tested positive for a banned substance, believed to be cocaine, at French track Deauville in August 2007 where he was riding Myboycharlie.

The test result emerged less than 24 hours after a judge at the Old Bailey directed that he and five others should be found not guilty of race-fixing charges.

So, just as Fallon looked set to repay the Coolmore operation which loyally stood by him through his arrest and trial, he is preparing for another suspension.

It is likely he will contest the test result, arguing there was a flaw in the procedure, but that may not save him from a ban.

The Coolmore trio of racehorse owners John Magnier, Michael Tabor and Derrick Smith are rumoured to have Johnny Murtagh in their sights as a potential replacement for Fallon.

Fallon is 43 in February, and if a suspension is imposed, it is most likely to range from a year to 18 months.

The crucial part is when any ban starts and how long it lasts.

A year out means he only misses one campaign, but an 18-month suspension, which might not end until late summer 2009, would rule him out of the major Classic races for two seasons running.

Fallon has already shown his iron will to recover from all manner of setbacks, ranging from an alcohol problem to a career-threatening shoulder injury.

His power in the saddle has drawn comparisons with the legendary Lester Piggott, whose own tale offers hope.

Piggott came out of retirement aged 54 and returned to race riding after serving a year in jail for tax offences.

He won the Breeders’ Cup Mile on Royal Academy within 10 days of his return, and two years later, claimed the 2,000 Guineas on Rodrigo de Triano.

Several top Flat jockeys have continued riding into their late 40s and 50s. Mick Kinane remains a sought-after pilot and won the Ascot Gold Cup in June, a day before his 48th birthday.

Pat Eddery was still claiming Group One winners at 51, while George Duffield kept going until 58.

Despite issues off the track, Fallon is arguably the supreme jockey of his generation.

And if he remains fit and focused, he will not be without offers when the time comes for a return.