Famed Italian jockey, Frankie Dettori, has announced that he will only continue racing if presented with an offer too good to refuse. The 52-year-old is currently on his highly publicized retirement tour, but it seems his retirement may not be set in stone.
Legendary jockey's ambitious bucket list
Dettori has been ticking off items from his bucket list during his retirement tour, which has included Classic victories and wins at major racing festivals. Earlier this month, he competed in Hungary and secured victories in a pair of Group races. However, Dettori's chances of winning the July Cup, the only British Group 1 race he has yet to conquer, were dashed due to a whip ban received at Royal Ascot.
Pay dispute dampens retirement celebration
Last week, Dettori made his first appearance in Northern Ireland to compete at Down Royal. However, a pay dispute has now led to Listowel being excluded from his retirement party. The esteemed jockey's final British rides are supposed to take place at Ascot's British Champions day, followed by the Breeders' Cup in the US before making his way to Australia to attempt to win the Melbourne Cup.
Could Dettori continue riding?
Rumors are swirling that Dettori may consider continuing his racing career next year. The jockey himself hasn't ruled out the possibility, stating, "At the moment, October 21st [at Ascot] is my last day in Europe, then it's America for the Breeders Cup, then Melbourne and possibly Hong Kong – but never say never. If somebody makes me a stupid offer then I will consider it, but at the moment, I am sticking to my guns."
Partnership opportunities and future plans
Dettori has formed an interesting partnership with Wathnan Racing, owned by the Emir of Qatar. Additionally, there is a vacancy at Amo Racing, following the surprise sacking of jockey Kevin Stott. However, it remains to be seen whether these opportunities would be enough to entice Dettori.
Looking ahead, Dettori expressed his desire to travel and spend time with his wife, now that their five children have left home. He admits that stopping racing will be a difficult period, as he has spent much of his life on racecourses. While he hasn't made concrete plans for the future, the renowned jockey is eager to explore the world beyond racing.
