Frankie Dettori: “I’m still the champion!” — a storm rocks the racing world
The world of British horse racing is in turmoil. Seventy-two hours before a major event, Frankie Dettori, the Italian legend, broke the silence with a statement as proud as it was provocative.
“I’m still the champion!” he declared in response to criticism. “Age won’t stop me. I’m still good enough to compete in the biggest races, including Royal Ascot next year.”
His words immediately sparked a wave of explosive reactions. Social media erupted, dividing fans and professionals between admiration and anger.
Some young jockeys denounced his “selfish” attitude, saying it was time for him to step aside for the next generation. “He’s had his glory,” said one. “Now he’s blocking the future of young people.” »
But Dettori didn’t waver. With a lively gaze and a confident tone, he replied with the pride of those who have proven everything: “Talent knows no age. As long as I win, I’ll stay.”
This response, as sharp as a whip on the track, sparked controversy. Several leading stables even threatened to withdraw their horses if Dettori were among the participants.
The atmosphere became electric. Discussions in the paddocks, backstage, and in the stands were focused on nothing else. Was the myth defying reality?
For three decades, Frankie Dettori embodied the magic of racing: his victories at Ascot, his charisma, his triumphant leaps after each success. He is more than a jockey—he is a living legend.
But for some, this legend is beginning to weigh on them. “He won’t give up,” sighs one owner. “He refuses to understand that every era has an end.”
And yet, for others, it is precisely this refusal that makes him great. “Frankie is the spirit of the sport,” confides one trainer. “As long as he rides, he inspires. And inspiring is already winning.”
Faced with the growing controversy, World Horse Racing had to intervene. And the resulting decision shocked the entire racing community.
The organization confirmed that Dettori would receive a special wild card to compete in next season’s major events, including Royal Ascot—an extremely rare gesture in the history of the sport.
This decision sent shockwaves through the air. Some saw it as a legitimate tribute to the greatest jockey of his time. Others saw it as unfair favoritism, contrary to the spirit of competition.
But Dettori, true to form, didn’t try to convince anyone. He simply smiled and declared, “I don’t want anything I haven’t earned. If I lose, it will be on the track, not on a rulebook.”
His audacity divides, yet fascinates. At sixty-three, Frankie Dettori continues to race against time, against critics, and sometimes against the very logic of sport.
Young people want his place. The public wants his spectacle. And he still wants to feel the wind, the speed, the glory of one last victory.
Royal Ascot 2026 is already shaping up to be a duel between generations. But one thing is certain: whether he wins or not, Frankie Dettori has just reminded the world why legends never truly retire.
