Key Highlights
- Frankie Dettori will retire from race riding in America after the Breeders’ Cup on Saturday.
- Dettori initially planned to retire at the end of the 2023 season but decided to continue for two more years.
- The legendary jockey has announced he will ride in South America before hanging up his boots.
Legendary Jockey Frankie Dettori: A Career Retrospective
After a remarkable career spanning over four decades, the renowned jockey Frankie Dettori is set to call time on his American race riding career following this weekend’s Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar. The decision comes as Dettori marks the end of a significant two-year stint in the United States after initially planning to retire at the conclusion of the 2023 season in Britain.
A Global Journey
Following his initial announcement, Dettori’s career took an unexpected turn when he won multiple Group One races with horses like Mostahdaf and Inspiral. This success prompted him to move to America, where he continued to make a mark on the racing scene. His most recent achievement in the United States was aboard Newgate in the Grade One Santa Anita Handicap under trainer Bob Baffert.
Future Ambitions
Following his final rides in the United States, Dettori has expressed his desire to realize a long-held dream of riding in South America before retiring for good. “It has been an honour to compete at the highest level of this sport for over four decades,” Dettori said in a statement on X. “I’m deeply grateful to my family, the owners, trainers, stable staff, and of course the supporters who have made my career possible.”
A Legacy Built Over Decades
Dettori’s illustrious career includes numerous victories at prestigious events such as the Breeders’ Cup. His most recent win came in 2023 aboard Inspiral. The Italian jockey shot to fame with his ‘Magnificent Seven’ at Ascot in 1996, a feat that remains one of the most remarkable achievements in racing history.
With over four decades of experience under his belt, Dettori has ridden alongside some of the world’s greatest horses and trainers.
His career highlights include triumphs with equine greats such as Enable and Stradivarius. Dettori’s journey from Italy to becoming one of the most respected jockeys in global racing is a testament to his skill and dedication.
The racing community eagerly awaits this weekend, when Dettori will once again take to the track with horses like Argine for what promises to be an emotional and memorable event. As he prepares to bid farewell to America, Frankie Dettori’s legacy as one of the most celebrated jockeys in history remains unassailable.
