Who is Frankie Dettori? Frankie Dettori, born Lanfranco Dettori on December 15, 1970, in Milan, Italy, is a legendary jockey known for his incredible achievements in horse racing. Following in his father's footsteps, Dettori began his career in England as an apprentice jockey at just 15 years old. Over three decades, he has become a global icon, celebrated for his exuberant riding style and signature "flying dismounts." Dettori's career highlights include winning 23 British Classic Races, achieving the "Magnificent Seven" at Ascot, and earning the title of Longines World’s Best Jockey four times. His resilience, charisma, and unparalleled skill have left an indelible mark on the sport.
Key Takeaways:
- Frankie Dettori's early passion for horse racing, influenced by his family, led to a stellar career as a jockey, marked by record-breaking wins and global recognition.
- Despite personal struggles, Frankie Dettori's legacy extends beyond his riding achievements, inspiring generations and leaving an enduring impact on the world of horse racing.
Early Life and Beginnings
Frankie Dettori's journey to becoming a legendary jockey started early, influenced by his family's deep ties to horse racing.
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Early Life and Inspiration: Born on December 15, 1970, in Milan, Italy, Frankie was inspired by his father, Gianfranco Dettori, a multiple champion jockey in Italy who also enjoyed Classic success in England.
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First Encounter with Horses: At twelve, Frankie’s father bought him a Palomino pony, sparking his lifelong passion for riding.
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Career Beginnings: By thirteen, Frankie left school to work as a stable boy. At fifteen, he moved to England to join Luca Cumani's Newmarket stable as an apprentice jockey in 1985.
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Initial Success: His first win came in Italy in 1986, followed by his first British victory at Goodwood a year later.
Rising Star
Frankie's talent quickly became evident, earning him recognition and setting the stage for a stellar career.
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Champion Apprentice Title: In 1989, Dettori won the champion apprentice title in Britain, highlighting his immense potential.
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Riding Style and Trademark: Known for his exuberant riding style, Frankie’s "flying dismounts" and cheeky humor became his trademarks.
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Group One Success: His first Group One victory came in 1990, riding Markofdistinction to win the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot.
Achievements and Records
Frankie Dettori's career is filled with remarkable achievements and record-breaking moments.
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British Classics: Dettori has won 23 British Classic Races, solidifying his status as one of the greatest jockeys in British racing history.
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Magnificent Seven: On September 28, 1996, Frankie achieved the impossible by riding all seven winners on a single racecard at Ascot, a feat known as "Frankie Dettori's Magnificent Seven."
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Historic Achievement: The "Magnificent Seven" cost the betting industry an estimated £40 million and made Dettori a household name.
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Longines World’s Best Jockey: Dettori has been awarded the title of Longines World’s Best Jockey four times: in 2015, 2018, 2019, and 2020.
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Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe Wins: Frankie has won the prestigious Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe six times, including two consecutive victories in 2017 and 2018 aboard Enable.
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Breeders’ Cup Classic Victory: In 2008, Dettori guided Raven’s Pass to victory in the Breeders’ Cup Classic at Santa Anita Park in the United States.
Honors and Recognition
Frankie's contributions to horse racing have earned him numerous accolades and honors.
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Honorary OBE: For his services to horse racing, Frankie was given an Honorary OBE by Queen Elizabeth II in 2000.
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Plane Crash Survival: In 2000, Dettori and fellow jockey Ray Cochrane survived a plane crash that killed the pilot. Frankie suffered a broken ankle and facial cuts but continued his career.
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TV Work and Part-Time Riding: After the plane crash, Dettori devoted less time to racing and more to TV work, including appearances on A Question of Sport. He eventually returned to full-time racing.
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British Champion Jockey: Frankie has been named British Champion Jockey three times: in 1994, 1995, and 2004.
Career Milestones
Throughout his career, Dettori has achieved numerous milestones that have cemented his legacy.
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Career Milestones: Dettori has claimed 3,345 victories, including 23 classics and numerous Group One wins.
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Record-Breaking Queen Anne Stakes: In 2007, Dettori guided Ramonti to a record-breaking win in the Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot, setting a new race record time of 1.37.21.
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Italian Champion Horse: Ramonti, the Italian champion horse, was previously a Group One winner in Italy before joining the Godolphin stables under Dettori’s guidance.
Global Impact
Frankie Dettori's influence extends beyond British racing, making a significant impact worldwide.
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Global Recognition: Dettori has won prestigious races in Europe, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States.
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Champion Apprentice Jockey: In 1989, Dettori became champion apprentice jockey with 75 wins and rode his first winner of a Group race, Legal Case in the Select Stakes at Goodwood.
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Stable Jockey to Cumani: In the spring of 1990, Dettori took up a position as stable jockey to Luca Cumani. That year he rode eight Group One winners for Cumani and four for other trainers, including Henry Cecil.
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Sheikh Mohammed’s Horses: In September 1993, Dettori was signed to ride Sheikh Mohammed’s horses trained by John Gosden. This partnership led to significant success, including his first British Classic success in the 1994 Epsom Oaks.
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Breeders’ Cup Victories: Frankie has won fourteen Breeders’ Cup races, including the first one with Sheikh Mohammed’s Cumani-trained Barathea in 1994.
Personal Life and Legacy
Frankie's personal life and struggles have also shaped his career and legacy.
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Impact on British Racing: Dettori’s impact on British racing has been immense, inspiring generations of jockeys and horse racing enthusiasts.
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Personal Life and Mental Health: Frankie has been open about his personal struggles, including a six-month ban for cocaine use. He has also spoken about the impact on his mental health and how it influenced his career.
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Media Appearances: Beyond racing, Dettori has appeared in various media outlets, including reality TV shows like I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here.
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Legacy and Recognition: Frankie’s legacy extends beyond his riding achievements. He is well-respected in the industry for his contributions to horse racing and his enduring popularity among fans.
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Final Race at Ascot: In a fitting end to an illustrious career, Frankie’s final race took place at Ascot, where he won, adding to his legendary status in the world of horse racing.
Frankie Dettori's Legacy in Horse Racing
Frankie Dettori's career is nothing short of legendary. From his early days in Milan to becoming a global icon, his journey is filled with remarkable achievements. Winning 23 British Classic Races, surviving a plane crash, and his unforgettable "Magnificent Seven" at Ascot are just a few highlights. Dettori's exuberant riding style and trademark flying dismounts have made him a fan favorite. His impact on horse racing is immense, inspiring countless jockeys and enthusiasts. With over 3,345 victories, including multiple Group One wins, his legacy is firmly cemented. Dettori's story is a testament to talent, dedication, and resilience. As he bids farewell to the sport, his contributions will be remembered for generations. Frankie Dettori isn't just a jockey; he's a racing legend whose influence will endure.
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