Lanfranco Dettori enjoyed a winning moment at San Isidro and played a major role in the celebration

The global icon opened his South American farewell tour, bringing his trademark charisma to the Gran Premio Carlos Pellegrini afternoon

Lanfranco Dettori was the first jockey to arrive at the Hipódromo de San Isidro on Saturday. He went straight to the jockeys’ room, changed, and headed out to walk the course—European style—under the curious gaze of the few already on hand, surprised by his approach.

That seriousness defined how the idol of the saddle embraced his role on Gran Premio Carlos Pellegrini (G1) day, opening in Argentina his South American farewell tour, which will continue Jan. 6 in Uruguay for the Ramírez (G1) at Maroñas and conclude Feb. 2 in Brazil at Gávea, in what also promises to be a memorable afternoon.

Smiling and clearly enjoying the moment, Dettori posed for hundreds of photos—with fellow jockeys, owners and fans alike—and added a personal touch to the celebration. He found genuine joy early in the program, steering the debutant Grand Candyman (Señor Candy), sharply prepared by Juan Saldivia, to victory in the third race, as the colt duly lived up to his favoritism.

Frankie followed instructions to the letter, kept his mount close to the pace, waited patiently in the stretch, and asserted control from the 300-meter mark to the wire, winning with authority and delivering the long-awaited image: the Angel’s Leap, live and direct.

He also recorded two third-place finishes, but did not factor in either the Gran Premio Joaquín S. de Anchorena (G1) aboard Hi Scottish (Hi Happy) or the Gran Premio Carlos Pellegrini (G1) with El Pulque (Heliostatic).

After the day’s centerpiece, Dettori received a formal tribute from Jockey Club officials—wearing the club’s colors—and then presented the winner’s trophy to João Moreira for the Brazilian star Obataye (Courtier), a familiar rival and colleague.

The Pellegrini and Dettori’s visit generated widespread national and international media coverage—a welcome jolt of exposure. It invites reflection on whether moves and investments of this kind might be among the most effective ways to broaden the global reach of South American racing.

Dettori visited Campo 2, stopped by Palermo, paid a visit to the Jockeys’ School to deliver a masterclass, and stamped his imprint on the most important racing day on the continent.

Genius and icon, peerless rider and unique showman, Lanfranco Dettori left an indelible mark on an unforgettable visit to Argentina. Now, racing fans in Uruguay and Brazil will have their chance to enjoy him.