Legendary jockey Frankie Dettori ended his 40-year career with a dramatic double win at Gavea racecourse in Rio de Janeiro. The 55-year-old Italian celebrated amid torrential rain and delays, soaking up champagne and lager from peers. Dettori's farewell tour concluded in style, marking the close of a storied journey in the sport.
Frankie Dettori, the iconic Italian jockey and father of five, retired with immediate effect on Sunday night at Gavea racecourse in Rio de Janeiro, beneath the Christ the Redeemer statue. His final evening featured a mix of triumph and chaos, as he secured a double victory, including the Group 1 Grande Premio Estado do Rio De Janeiro—Brazil's equivalent of the 2,000 Guineas and the first leg of their Triple Crown—aboard Bet You Can.
Drama ensued when Dettori refused to race in what would have been his last ride on the unruly horse Nidavellir, as it headed to the start. Torrential rain further disrupted the meeting, causing substantial delays and cutting the Sky Sports Racing feed. Despite the challenges, Dettori was doused in champagne and lager by fellow jockeys, cracking open bubbly to toast the end of his career.
Before his final rides, Dettori shared an emotional message on social media: “Today I climb into the saddle for the last time, and it’s 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. 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 forever and have been lucky enough to ride some truly extraordinary horses.” He extended thanks to his family for their support, to trainers, owners, stable staff, and jockeys for shared laughs, and to fans for their unwavering encouragement.
Dettori's career highlights include his first winner in Italy in 1986, initial British success in 1987, and becoming champion apprentice in 1989. He was British champion three times, winning every British Classic at least twice, and broke his Derby duck on Authorized in 2007 after 14 attempts. Associated with equine stars like dual Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe winner Enable and stayer Stradivarius, he notched 15 Breeders’ Cup wins and famously achieved the 'Magnificent Seven' at Ascot in 1996. Recently facing a £765,000 tax bill amid bankruptcy issues, Dettori will now serve as ambassador for Kia Joorabchian’s Amo Racing.