What Has Made Frankie Dettori Such a Successful Jockey?

Italian rider Frankie Dettori is one of the most successful jockeys in the history of horse racing. He is set to bring an end to his glittering career later this year when he retires from the sport at the age of 52.

Here is a look at what has made Dettori so special, and at some of his achievements in the sport.

Trusted By Big Owners and Trainers

Dettori has had the backing of the biggest owners and trainers around the world in horse racing throughout his career, which has been integral to his success. They have often seen him as the best option for their horses.

Despite his age, Dettori continues to be booked to ride the best horses. He will partner Inspiral in the Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Turf later this year. The filly is the 5/2 favourite in the bet on horse racing with Paddy Power market.

With this being his last Breeders’ Cup in 2023, Dettori’s runners are likely to be among the popular racing tips for the meeting at Santa Anita. He will be hoping to grab the headlines at the end of the two-day world championship event, just like he has so often before.

Coolness in the Saddle

Making the right decisions on the track consistently is what makes jockeys successful in the sport. Dettori has been able to handle pressure better than any of his colleagues in the jockeys’ room. He has frequently gotten the big decisions right on the track.

It's Frankie Dettori's day as Chaldean wins the 2000 Guineas! pic.twitter.com/qzXE2978kX

— At The Races (@AtTheRaces) May 6, 2023

In Flat Racing, jockeys get a split second to decide whether they need to go through a gap or if they need to switch to the outside of the field. This is a decision that can be the difference between winning and losing, as was the case when he rode Chadlean to victory in the 2,000 Guineas, as reported by the BBC at Newmarket.

Strength to Ride Out a Finish

Although jockeys must keep their weight down in the saddle, upper body strength is vital, as they are sometimes required to ride out a finish. Dettori has had impressive strength for his size, as has been able to get the extra required from his runners in many duels inside the closing stages of races.

Dettori’s career began in 1985 and throughout those 38 years, he has looked after his body with incredible discipline. He is one of the oldest jockeys in the sport today and that is a great testament to his fitness and health.

Enjoyed the Big Occasion

BREAKING NEWS: Golden Horn wins Epsom Derby for jockey Frankie Dettori #SSNHQ pic.twitter.com/Z8qMxBgZpE

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) June 6, 2015

The Italian rider has had big race wins all around the world. He is a jockey who has relished the major events, like the Derby, Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, and Breeders’ Cup meeting. The three-time Champion Jockey has won 287 Group One races, including 23 British Classics.

Dettori will leave the jockeys’ room having broken many records. One of his most memorable days came in 1996 when he rode all seven winners on a card at Ascot. His ‘Magnificent Seven’ was unprecedented and it helped the sport enjoy headlines across the world.

Who knows what the next chapter will be in Dettori’s career, but if he is half as successful as he was a jockey, he is set for a lot more success.