19 January 2023 , 15:14
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Retiring top jockey Frankie Dettori has confirmed the next stop on his farewell tour will be Saudi Arabia.
The racing legend, enjoying warmer climes in America, is heading over to bag a ride in the £16 million feature race. At King Abdulaziz Racecourse, the Saudi Cup was won by British raider Mishriff in 2021, a horse Dettori has previously ridden.
On his overseas trip, the 52-year-old will also take part in the International Jockeys Challenge to try and add to his six winners there so far.
"In my final year as a jockey I want to go to as many places as possible," he said.
"The Saudi Cup is a huge event that I’m delighted to be a part of. Being asked to ride in the International Jockeys Challenge is an honour.
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“This will be one of my final chances to share a weighing room with some of the world’s greatest jockeys. I know both the dirt and the turf tracks well having ridden in Riyadh quite a lot over the years, and it’s a place I enjoy riding at as it’s very fair and the surfaces are always in great condition.
“The IJC event is also a great warm-up event for the big races on the Saturday, and, of course, the Saudi Cup itself, which I’d love to win.”
Chaldean could be a final Classic winner for Dettori this year (PA)Dettori has made ten seasonal appearances in Saudi Arabia during his lengthy career in the saddle, riding in 72 races.
After his worldwide adventure, he will return for the core Flat season and sign off in Britain at Ascot's Champions Day in October. The rider of more than 3,000 winners is expected to bow out on his return to America for the Breeders Cup a month later.
In Saudi Arabia, he will be joined by his old friend Joao Moreira, four-time champion jockey in Hong Kong.
“Frankie’s just a brilliant rider, he’s the best. Getting the chance to ride with him once again is fantastic," he said.
The International Jockeys Challenge consists of four handicap races, each worth a huge $400,000.