Ryan Moore may not return to horse racing until next year, as stated by trainer Aidan O’Brien on Thursday. The renowned jockey, who rides for O’Brien’s Ballydoyle stable, has been out of action since early September due to a stress fracture of the femur. O’Brien initially indicated that Moore’s recovery period was indefinite, leading to Christophe Soumillon stepping in as a top-notch replacement.
During Moore’s absence, Soumillon has achieved significant success by winning four Group 1 races on Ballydoyle horses, including the Irish Champion Stakes, Prix Marcel Boussac, Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere, and the Fillies’ Mile. Soumillon also secured a commendable second place in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe aboard Minnie Hauk.
This Saturday at Ascot, Soumillon, a ten-time French champion jockey, is set to compete in four Group 1 races on Qipco British Champion’s Day with mounts provided by O’Brien. His rides include Stay True in the Long Distance Cup, Bedtime Story in the Fillies & Mares, The Lion In Winter in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes, and Delacroix in the Champion Stakes.
It appears that Soumillon will continue as the primary jockey, supported by Wayne Lordan, for the remainder of 2025, which includes the upcoming Breeders’ Cup in November. Despite Moore’s attendance at recent Newmarket fixtures as a spectator alongside O’Brien, the decision seems to lean towards Soumillon retaining the role.
Speaking at a Champions Day media conference, O’Brien mentioned, “Christophe has been a longstanding rider for us, and Ryan seems to be progressing well. I believe he’s on the right track.” When asked about Moore’s return, O’Brien commented, “I anticipate it will be next year. There doesn’t seem to be any alternative. Ryan will provide more details, but the nature of his injury requires time, and I am certain Ryan is focusing on the long-term perspective rather than a quick return.”
