A Legendary Jockey Rides into the Sunset
Frankie Dettori, the world-renowned jockey, will be saying goodbye to the British racing scene as he takes his final ride at Ascot tomorrow. The 52-year-old Italian, known for his flamboyant personality and incredible talent, will be relocating to California after the race.
A Touch of Royalty
Frankie Dettori is no stranger to breaking the rules, even when it comes to royalty. When he won the 2019 St Leger, he cheekily asked his trainer, Sir Michael Stoute, if they could hug. Although embarrassed, Stoute couldn't resist Dettori's charm. It's moments like these that make Frankie Dettori truly one-of-a-kind.
A Temperament Like No Other
Frankie Dettori is known for his Latin temperament. When things are going well, he is on cloud nine. But when he's feeling down, he plunges into despair. I've seen both sides of his character personally. He can be elusive, like the time he escaped my interview by climbing out of a backroom window. And he has a short fuse, as witnessed during a golf game in Dubai when he couldn't take a fellow player's slow pace anymore. But despite his fiery personality, Dettori always manages to captivate.
Overcoming Challenges
Frankie Dettori's career has not been without its ups and downs. In 2003, he faced an arrest for possession of cocaine, and in 2012, he failed a drugs test in France. But through it all, he has bounced back, thanks in part to his partnership with trainer John Gosden. Dettori's darkest day came in 2000 when he survived a plane crash. It was a miracle that he and fellow jockey Ray Cochrane escaped with their lives.
Looking Forward to the Future
As Frankie Dettori bids farewell to his British career, he looks forward to indulging in his favorite pastime – eating. Known as the world's highest-paid weight-watcher, Dettori can finally enjoy some well-deserved meals. And while he knows he will shed a few tears tomorrow, he acknowledges that British racing will never be the same without him.
