 |
|
| Staff Writer |
 |  |  |  |
The highly anticipated twenty fifth Dubai World Cup could only be completed by Frankie Dettori’s inescapable presence. In casting Frankie Dettori, leading handlers like John Gosden and Godolphin’s Saeed Bin Suroor have delivered a masterstroke.
As Godolphin’s retained jockey until 2021, Dettori has watched the Dubai World Cup take on iconic status over the last two and half decades. The Italian whose most celebrated achievement was riding all seven winners on British Champions' Day at Ascot in 1996, has ridden three World Cup winners.
Here, Fanning touches on the upcoming World Cup night, his friendship with Bin Suroor and what we can expect from him in the near future.
Q: Please tell us about your earliest and fondest memory of racing in Dubai? And of racing on World Cup night?
A: Racing in Dubai has been close to my heart since the early days of my career and the early days at Nad Al Sheba. My greatest memory is, of course, Dubai Millennium when he demolished the field. He has gone on to be the sire of Dubai one of the great stallions of the modern era.
Q: Please tell us more about your friendship with Saeed bin Suroor.
A: I have ridden for Saeed for many years, so it is very special to be riding a few for him again. We have always been friends and understand each other well.
Q: What are you like before the Dubai World Cup raceday?
A: I feel nervous but no more so than on any other big day. Excitement is probably a stronger emotion and I thrive on that.
 |  |
Q: What horses are you riding on Dubai World Cup day this year and what are your plans after World Cup?
A: I’m not really sure what I am riding just yet so we will have to wait and see but Im sure that Saeed and John Gosden will have fancied runners
Q: You have been associated with racing at the highest level. You inspire many. Who inspires you and why?
A: Ayrton Senna has always been my sporting hero and I also love top level soccer and the best players
Q: Please tell us about favourite horse and why?
A: There are several favourites but the shortlist is Dubai Millennium, Authorised, Golden Horn, Enable, Daylami and Swain.
Q: What race has always eluded you? Which races are on your bucket list win over the next 10 years?
A: I haven’t won The July Cup or The Melbourne Cup yet but I will keep trying!
Q: Please tell us about your family. Are your kids also into racing? Do you see them joining the industry?
A: My family enjoy racing but all have their own interests. We have five children and they have all grown up surrounded by racing so I’m sure that it will be in their blood forever
Q: What have been your two life lessons during lockdown.
A: Lockdown has been so difficult for so many people and I have been blessed to keep working. Lets hope that the crowds are back on the racecourses soon