FRANKIE Dettori is hoping to make a winning return to action at Newmarket on Wednesday.
The legendary Italian recently returned from a winter spell in the Middle East and is set to take his first rides in Britain since November.
Dettori, 50, partners hot favourite Global Giant in the Group 3 Earl of Sefton Stakes on day two of the Craven Meeting.
The horse, who was an easy winner at Kempton last month, has also been on his travels in recent months, finishing second under Dettori in Bahrain and down the field in the Saudi Cup.
He heads the betting at 10-11 with Betway, and Dettori reckons he has a strong chance of kicking his season off with a winner in the £45k contest.
He said: “I’m looking forward to riding back in Britain and getting back on Global Giant who is owned by a good friend of mine Sheikh Isa.
“We had a crack at the Bahrain International where we came second after missing the gate then he didn’t take to the dirt well in the Saudi Cup.
“He won really well with Rab Havlin in a Listed race at Kempton last time. This looks a good spot for him and nine furlongs should be ideal. Everyone is happy with him at home.
“He has a favourite’s chance. It is a good ride to have as my first ride back in Britain this year.”
Global Giant is the hot favourite for Wednesday’s Earl Of Sefton Stakes
Dettori made a triumphant return to Dubai earlier in the year, riding several winners during the World Cup Carnival after several seasons away.
He has enjoyed riding with some winter sun on his back – but he is ready to get stuck in to the new turf campaign in Europe.
He added: “I’ve had a great winter despite the Covid pandemic.
“I was able to ride in Dubai and I had a good carnival out there with Saeed Bin Suroor along with riding a Group 1 winner for John Gosden on Lord North in the Dubai Turf.
“I’ve also had a couple of trips to Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. I’ve really been enjoying things and I’m really looking forward to seeing people back at the races here.
“Fifty is a big number and it does scare me a bit sometimes but the body feels good at the moment thank God and I’m enjoying my racing.”
Dettori also rides Star Of Emaraaty (3.35) and Delta Bay (4.10) at Newmarket on Wednesday.
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