Frankie Dettori bowed out of his 40-year racing career with a double on his final day in the saddle.
The three-time champion jockey brought the curtain down on his sporting career with two wins at Gávea Racecourse in Brazil yesterday (1 February) – including the Grande Prêmio Estado do Rio de Janeiro (Brazilian 2000 Guineas).
In a message to fans ahead of his final rides, Frankie said that it is “hard to put into words what I’m feeling”.
“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,” he said.
“It may not have been perfect at times, but I have loved every single moment. I’ve travelled the world, met incredible people, made memories I will carry for ever and have been lucky enough to ride some truly extraordinary horses.”
He added: “To my family, thank you for your love, patience, and unwavering support. You shared the journey and sacrifices and you are the reason for everything.
“To every trainer, owner, stable staff member, and jockey I’ve shared this journey with, thank you. We’ve had some laughs along the way.
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“And to the fans, you were always there. Your love and support carried me around the world and lifted me more than you’ll ever know.
“Thank you for letting a young boy live his dream.”
“I am simply not ready to retire completely. I’m still enjoying riding and I want to carry on for a while on the international circuit,” he said in October 2023, adding that he would instead be heading to the US to take up race-riding opportunities there and elsewhere on the international circuit.
In October 2025, Frankie said that year’s Breeders’ Cup would be his US race-riding swansong and that he would conclude his career with a few rides in South America, adding that it was “something I’ve always wanted to do”.
Lucy is an experienced news journalist, reporter and presenter. Since joining the Horse & Hound team in 2015, Lucy has reported from major global sporting events including the Tokyo Paralympic Games and multiple European Championships, as well as Badminton, Burghley and London, to name a few. She has covered current affairs and sports news across the full spectrum of equestrian disciplines and racing, as well as human and equine welfare, industry news and court cases.
