A giant mural celebrating champion jockey Frankie Dettori's remarkable 40-year career was unveiled by Epsom Downs Racecourse on Tuesday. The 52ft by 23ft art installation is located on the side of the Duchess Stand and depicts him in the colours of his 2015 G1 Derby winner Golden Horn (GB) (Cape Cross {Ire}).
“It was a big surprise,” Dettori said. “I was quite embarrassed when I first saw it, actually. I love it. It is amazing, I'm gobsmacked, really. It's the young me and the older me. It was my biggest thrill in my racing career, the Derby in 2015 on Golden Horn. I'm glad it is there forever now. It looks great.”
Dettori has enjoyed some of his most memorable moments at Epsom Downs over the years, earning two Derby victories with Authorized (Ire) in 2007 and Golden Horn in 2015. The 52-year-old announced at the end of last year that 2023 would be his last season in the saddle.
“I have mixed feelings,” Dettori said. “It's the end of an era, and it's nice to be recognised with something as big as this. Epsom is a special place for me. I've had some great memories, lots of nice winners–two Derby wins, five Coronations, five Oaks. It's been a good stamping ground for me. [Winning another Derby} would be amazing. I haven't got a ride yet, but it will be amazing.”
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