Legendary jockey Frankie Dettori has confirmed that he will officially retire from racing after this weekend’s Breeders’ Cup in Del Mar, California. The 54-year-old icon, whose remarkable career has spanned nearly four decades, said the event would mark the end of his professional riding career in the United States before he embarks on a short farewell tour in South America.
Dettori had initially announced his retirement in 2022, planning to end his career at the 2023 Breeders’ Cup. However, his passion for racing led him to extend his time in the sport by moving to the United States, where he enjoyed two successful seasons competing on both coasts.
In a farewell statement, Dettori expressed his gratitude to everyone who contributed to his storied journey. He thanked his family, owners, trainers, stable staff, and fans worldwide for their unwavering support, adding, “It has been an honour to compete at the highest level of this sport for over four decades. From the bottom of my heart, thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout this incredible journey.”
Dettori’s rides at the Breeders’ Cup include Khaadem in the Turf Sprint and Wimbledon Hawkeye in the Turf, both horses he previously guided to Grade One victories. His final top-level mount will be aboard the Japanese-trained Argine in the Breeders’ Cup Mile.
The Italian-born jockey began his career as a teenager in the mid-1980s, riding his first winner in Italy in 1986 and quickly rising through the ranks in Britain. He became the UK champion jockey three times and earned global fame in 1996 when he rode all seven winners on the same day at Ascot—an achievement still regarded as one of racing’s most extraordinary feats.
Over the years, Dettori became synonymous with world-class horses such as Enable and Stradivarius, further cementing his legacy as one of the sport’s most charismatic and successful figures.
As he prepares to hang up his saddle after one final bow on racing’s biggest stage, Frankie Dettori’s farewell marks the close of an era defined by brilliance, resilience, and showmanship.
