Frankie Dettori bows out for good at the Breeders’ Cup

Frankie Dettori was out of luck at Del Mar, as he said goodbye to America on the final night of big-race action in his long and distinguished career.

Having bowed out from Britain on Champions Day at Ascot in 2023, when seemingly headed for permanent retirement, Dettori, 54, soon reversed that decision when announcing he would ride in the States.

Now he is set to hang up his saddle for good – with the exception of fulfilling an ambition to have a handful of rides in South America – and will take up an ambassadorial role for Kia Joorabchain’s Amo Racing.

Taking three mounts on Breeders’ Cup Saturday, the Italian managed an excellent third on Charlie Hills’ veteran Khaadem in the Turf Sprint, before Wimbledown Hawkeye was 12th of 14 in the Turf.

Dettori’s finale came in the Mile, a race he first won in 1994 aboard Barathea and again in 2018 with Expert Eye. Riding the Japanese-trained Argine, he had to bide his time at the rear of the field but was able to weave through horses late to finish a creditable sixth.

Dettori said: “I enjoyed my last ride, but we were too far back. I was prepared for this last day and remember I did a dress rehearsal two years ago.

“I still feel a bit numb, but the fire isn’t there any more.

“I’m closing this chapter and starting a new one and am thankful that I’m walking away in one piece.

“I’ve had a tremendous career and will spend two months in South America riding in Argentina and Uruguay. Then I will start my new job with Kia.”

It means Dettori bows out with 15 winners at the Breeders’ Cup, with his last winner at the world championships being the John and Thady Gosden-trained Inspiral in the Filly & Mare Turf at Santa Anita in 2023, shortly after his relocation Stateside.

He added: “Ever since I rode Markofdistinction for Gerald Leigh in Royal Academy’s Mile (1990), I’ve always loved the Breeders’ Cup. But it’s over, and I’m done.”