Phenomenal Jockey Frankie Dettori Dreams of One Last Dance in South America
- Turf Diario
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The Italian Genius Ended His U.S. Campaign After the Breeders’ Cup and Hopes to Bid Farewell to Fans with Rides in Argentina, Uruguay, and Chile
By Diego H. Mitagstein
DEL MAR, California (From a Turf Diario Special Correspondent) — After more than four decades competing at the highest level, Frankie Dettori is beginning to close an incomparable chapter. His farewell to American racing came Saturday at the Breeders’ Cup, but the Italian legend still has one more dream to fulfill: taking his final bow on the racetracks of South America, a long-postponed ambition.
Speaking with Objetivo Breeders’ Cup for Global Media Turf, the Milan-born superstar reflected with serenity and gratitude on his career, his retirement, and what comes next.
“I feel good, not too emotional. I’m happy with myself. It’s been a great journey—and what better place to stop than at the Breeders’ Cup…” he said with a laugh.
Although his retirement seemed settled, Dettori confirmed that there will still be a short epilogue to his riding career—this time far from California. “The decision to retire became easier, and my work with Amo Racing is something I’m really excited about, serving as their global ambassador and racing representative. It’s a young and growing stable that asked me to share my experience and help them expand internationally.”
Yet, the most exciting revelation came when he spoke about his long-awaited South American farewell tour—a “last dance” across some of the continent’s most iconic tracks.
“I love South America. I met Diego [the journalist] maybe 20 years ago, and you [Pablo Núñez, one of the panelists] have asked me so many times to come… This time I want to promise that I’ll do it—I’ll try. I had it in mind even if I wasn’t retiring; it’s always been my ambition. I have many fans in South America, and I’ve chosen three major destinations: the Gran Premio Carlos Pellegrini, the Gran Premio José Pedro Ramírez, and El Derby in Chile. They’re three of the biggest days in South American racing. I hope it happens.”
If the plan comes together, Dettori could ride in the G1 Gran Premio Carlos Pellegrini on December 13 at San Isidro, the G1 José Pedro Ramírez on January 6 at Maroñas, and El Derby (G1) at Valparaíso Sporting on the first Saturday of February. There is also a chance he could appear in the G1 Las Oaks at Club Hípico de Santiago on December 26, though those details remain in negotiation despite early reports from several outlets across the continent.
When asked to reflect on his career highlights, Dettori didn’t hesitate: “Obviously the Magnificent Seven at Ascot, my first Derby in England… and many Breeders’ Cups. I can’t name them all, but I’d say there are three things that really stand out.”
Asked if he planned to pursue a media career, he replied in his trademark style: “A bit. I’m happy with my new position at Amo Racing—it keeps me within the sport. But yes, I’ll do some media work too. It’s important to have something to do after retirement; we all fear that moment. I’m happy because I already have a new chapter, and I’ll still be close to horses.”
On his philosophy as a rider, Dettori offered words that summarize his legacy: “I always tell everyone the same thing—the most important thing is to love the horse. You can learn technique and style, but if you start by loving and understanding the horse, you’re already 90% there.”
He added: “Horses have a sixth sense. If you project positivity, they perform better because they feel your energy. They’re beautiful, sensitive animals, and you need the right mindset when you’re on their back.”
When asked to name his most beloved mounts, emotion crept into his voice. “The one I loved most was Enable, because I had her for four years and she took me to emotional places no other horse ever did. She won two Arcs, a Breeders’ Cup… I adore her. She probably wasn’t the best—Dubai Millennium and Golden Horn were superior—but she’s my favorite. And Fujiyama Crest, the horse that made me famous when I won all seven races at Ascot. He lived with me for 15 years as a thank-you. He had a wonderful life.”
Dettori also pointed to his family as a key factor in his decision to retire. “That’s another big reason. Every time I went out to ride, I saw my wife’s face—petrified. She suffered a lot, so she’s happy, of course.”
And, as always, he finished on an upbeat note: “I’m really excited. I love new challenges, and the passion of South American fans for racing is incredible. I can’t wait to be there!”
Now transitioning from global superstar to enduring legend, Frankie Dettori is working with his team to make his South American dream a reality—and hopes to have everything confirmed soon. For the region’s racing community, his farewell would be a moment of pure magic—one that absolutely must not be missed.
