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| Sumita Pawar |
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Frankie Dettori has been announced as the jockey for Mostahdaf in the upcoming Juddmonte International at York.
The colt, trained by John and Thady Gosden, had a stunning victory at the Prince of Wales's Stakes during Royal Ascot.
However, due to his regular jockey, Jim Crowley, being suspended for his winning ride in the King George aboard Hukum, a new rider was needed for Mostahdaf's next challenge.
After a successful ride on the 5YO during a Saturday morning spin, Dettori was chosen to take over the reins on August 23 at the Knavesmire.
“John put Frankie on him this morning and said ‘I think Frankie’s the man’, so he will ride him at York,” said Shadwell’s racing manager Angus Gold.
“He had a sit on him this morning and seemed very happy with the horse. We’ll try and keep him in one piece and then they’ll both be reunited at York.”
Although Dettori is not usually seen in the blue and white colors associated with the late Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum, Gold, the trainer, is thrilled to have him on board.
Unexpected Match: Dettori In Blue
He added, “He obviously won on Sakhee back in the day and more recently I remember him winning the Greenham at Newbury on Muhaarar (in 2015).
“He’s ridden plenty for us over the years and it will be very nice to hopefully give him a decent ride in his final year.”
Mostahdaf is currently the second-favorite for the Juddmonte International, trailing behind the exceptional Paddington, according to several bookmakers.
The competition promises to be exciting, especially with last year's Derby champion, Desert Crown, also in contention for the race.
“It’s a fantastic race, as it should be. Let’s hope they're all there in one piece,” said Gold.