In his British racing farewell at Ascot, Dettori makes a double win look like a scene from a movie script.
“It’s like something out of Hollywood!” That was Frankie Dettori’s sentiment after wrapping up his British racing career in fairytale fashion, with not one but two victories at Ascot.
The seasoned 52-year-old jockey made sure to go out with a bang, capturing a dramatic come-from-behind win with King Of Steel in the prestigious Champion Stakes.
The chants of “Oh, Frankie Dettori, Oh Frankie Dettori” reverberated from the stands as the jockey took a moment to acknowledge the crowd.
Earlier in the day, he had chalked up an exhilarating victory aboard Trawlerman in the kickoff event, the Long Distance Cup, on Champions Day.
Queen Camilla Adds to the Fanfare with Dettori Statue Unveiling
Complete Champions Day Results
Honestly, who’s scripting this guy’s life? His career reads like a blockbuster screenplay, filled with highs and lows, from being a champion and surviving a plane crash to facing a drugs ban and making a remarkable comeback.
The hardest chapter to write was his recent change of heart about retirement, opting instead to continue his racing adventures in the United States starting next year.
Dettori had announced that Champions Day would mark his final ride on British soil. And he initiated his send-off with an enthralling win aboard Trawlerman, making it evident that his decision to keep riding might just be the right one.
With more than three decades of racing and over 3,300 career wins to his name, these victories were among his most memorable. In a high-drama moment, he managed to rally Trawlerman past old foe Ryan Moore on Kyprios, after odds had soared to 999-1 on Betfair.
But he wasn’t done yet. Steering the 3-1 favorite King Of Steel, trained by Roger Varian for Kia Joorabchian’s Amo Racing, he managed to outpace Via Sestina in the event’s marquee race. Another win, another signature flying dismount to treat the fans.
Few sports figures have been witnessed live by as many people as Dettori, especially with horse racing being Britain’s second most-watched sport. And, as always, he knows how to electrify the crowd, whether it’s with air punches, acrobatic jumps, or tender moments with his horse.
“Words can’t express how I’m feeling. The crowd’s energy got the horse across the line. The atmosphere was absolutely insane, comparable to Wembley Stadium,” Dettori mused.
He almost netted a triple win but was narrowly beaten in the Champions Sprint Stakes, where he rode the favored Kinross and was outpaced by 40-1 underdog Art Power.
His other races included a fifth-place finish on Free Wind and a tenth-place run with Chaldean, but these were mere footnotes in an otherwise stellar day.
Dettori’s farewell took place at the very venue where he once achieved the ‘Magnificent Seven,’ winning all seven races on a single card at astronomical odds of 25,000-1.
Beyond the numbers, which include 281 top-level Group One wins and victories in 24 countries, is a man with an extraordinary ability to bounce back from adversity, surviving events like a deadly plane crash and a high-profile split from Sheikh Mohammed.
His long-time mentor John Gosden summed it up best: “At his peak, there’s no one better, and he thrives on the crowd’s energy.”
While there have been skeptics who view Dettori’s farewell tour as a prolonged PR stunt, his transcendence as a crossover star in the world of sports is indisputable. He’s even taken his charisma to mainstream TV, appearing on shows like Top of the Pops and Celebrity Big Brother.
As for what lies ahead, the bookmakers seem to think there’s a good chance we’ll see him back at Ascot for the Royal meeting next year. For now, Dettori is set to take his talents to the U.S., Melbourne, and Hong Kong before beginning an extended stay stateside next year.
So as one chapter of Frankie Dettori’s storied career closes, another one might just be opening. Frankie goes to Hollywood, indeed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Frankie Dettori Farewell at Ascot
What was Frankie Dettori’s final event in British horse racing?
Frankie Dettori’s final event in British horse racing was at Ascot during the Champions Day. He secured victories in two major races: the Long Distance Cup on Trawlerman and the Champion Stakes on King Of Steel.
Where is Frankie Dettori planning to race next?
Frankie Dettori is planning to race in the United States, Melbourne, and Hong Kong before settling down for an extended stint in the United States starting next year.
Did Dettori win any races during his farewell event?
Yes, Frankie Dettori won two significant races during his farewell event at Ascot. He emerged victorious in the Long Distance Cup on Trawlerman and the Champion Stakes on King Of Steel.
What was the atmosphere like during Dettori’s final British race?
According to Dettori, the atmosphere during his final British race was electric and comparable to the ambiance at Wembley Stadium. The crowd was highly engaged and supportive.
How long has Frankie Dettori been racing?
Frankie Dettori has been racing for over 37 years. Over the course of his career, he has claimed more than 3,300 wins.
What was the significance of Dettori’s win on King Of Steel?
The win on King Of Steel in the Champion Stakes was particularly dramatic as it was a last-to-first victory, highlighting Dettori’s still-vibrant skill and experience.
What are some other career highlights for Frankie Dettori?
Frankie Dettori has had a storied career filled with highs and lows, including surviving a plane crash, facing a drugs ban, and making a comeback. He is best known for his ‘Magnificent Seven’ in 1996, where he won all seven races on a single card at Ascot.
Have there been any controversies surrounding Frankie Dettori?
While Dettori is widely admired, there have been some critics who view his farewell tour as an extended marketing opportunity rather than a genuine goodbye to British racing.
Was there any special ceremony for Dettori’s farewell?
Yes, Queen Camilla unveiled a new sculpture of Frankie Dettori on horseback at Ascot, making it the second statue of him at the Berkshire course.
Is this truly the end for Frankie Dettori’s racing career?
It may not be the final chapter for Frankie Dettori. Bookmakers suggest there’s a good chance he could return to Ascot for the Royal meeting next year. For now, he plans to continue racing, primarily in the United States.
More about Frankie Dettori Farewell at Ascot
- Frankie Dettori’s Career Highlights
- Ascot Racecourse Official Website
- The History of British Horse Racing
- Queen Camilla’s Public Engagements
- Overview of Frankie Dettori’s Farewell Tour
- Bookmakers’ Odds on Dettori’s Future Races
- The Champions Day at Ascot: Event Summary
- The Story Behind the ‘Magnificent Seven’
- Dettori’s Impact on Horse Racing: An Analysis
8 comments
Frankie’s like a rockstar of the racing world. Even got to present Top of the Pops once, haha. Can’t wait to see what he does next.
If bookmakers are to be believed, this ain’t the last we’ve seen of Frankie. I wouldn’t be surprised if he pulls another U-turn and shows up next year. Y’never know with this guy!
So there’s TWO statues of him at Ascot? Well, if anyone’s deserving, it’s Frankie. Queen Camilla unveiling it is just the cherry on top.
Whoa, this story’s got everything! Triumph, drama, a dash of controversy. It’s like a movie plot. Frankie goes to Hollywood should be the title if they ever make a film.
Man, Frankie Dettori is like the Tom Brady of horse racing. Can’t believe he’s leaving British turf, but what a way to go out, huh?
did anyone else think “Frankie goes to Hollywood” at the end? Dude’s life is a rollercoaster, from plane crashes to drug bans, and he still comes out on top.
The crowd at Ascot must’ve been electric! Wish I was there to feel the vibes and cheer for Frankie. Hope he smashes it in the U.S. too.
Gotta respect the guy for still being this good at 52. If I’m half as spry at that age, I’ll count myself lucky.