Frankie Dettori has officially retired from horse racing after a remarkable final victory in Brazil, triumphing in the initial stage of the nation’s Triple Crown. The esteemed jockey had initially planned to retire during Champions Day at Ascot in October 2023 but later changed his mind, opting to prolong his career in the United States.
At 55 years old, Dettori announced in November that his racing days would conclude at the Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar, following a brief farewell tour in South America that culminated at the Gavea racecourse in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday. During his last races, he clinched two wins, first on Speak Alpha and then on Bet You Can in the Brazilian 2,000 Guineas, known as the Grande Premio Estado do Rio De Janeiro.
This final victory afforded Dettori the chance to showcase his iconic flying dismount celebration, a trademark move he is renowned for. Reflecting on his farewell race, he expressed, “I never expected to win a Group 1 on my last day. It’s been brilliant. I was very emotional. I enjoyed everything. I’ve had a beautiful career and I’m blessed I can walk out in one piece.”
While acknowledging the end of his jockey career, Dettori shared his future plans stating, “I achieved everything I wanted to do. I hope people enjoyed what I did. Of course my career is finished as a jockey but I’m not dead. I’m still going to be involved in racing.” He has accepted a new role as a global ambassador for Kia Joorabchian’s Amo Racing, a position he embraced after riding his final British Group 1 on King Of Steel in the Champion Stakes.
In a heartfelt message to his fans on social media, Dettori expressed his deep gratitude towards the sport, stating, “Racing has been my life. I began riding in Italy as a 15-year-old boy nearly 40 years ago, and this sport has given me everything. It may not have been perfect at times, but I have loved every single moment. I’ve traveled the world, met incredible people, made memories I will carry forever and have been lucky enough to ride some truly extraordinary horses.”
He extended his appreciation to his family for their unwavering support throughout his journey and thanked the trainers, owners, stable staff members, and fellow jockeys who shared in his racing experiences. Dettori also expressed his gratitude to his fans, acknowledging their unwavering support that propelled him throughout his career, concluding with a heartfelt, “Thank you for letting a young boy live his dream.”