- Horse racing
Dettori joins Al Shaqab Racing
Frankie Dettori has secured a new retained rider position with Qatar-based owner Sheikh Joaan al Thani.
The three-time champion jockey has been a free agent since the end of his 18-year association with the Godolphin stables, owned by Dubai's Sheik Mohammed, in October 2012.
Dettori was later hit with a six-month doping ban and has been riding freelance since return on May 31, but said he was "thrilled" to be teaming up with Al Shaqab Racing.
"I'm thrilled to have taken a job for an outstanding new owner," Dettori said. "I'm looking forward to the association."
Al Shaqab Racing is considered one of the emerging forces in racing circles with the Richard Hannon-trained Craven Stakes winner Toronado on the books, ridden in his six previous races by current champion jockey Richard Hughes.
The British-based team also boasts the Marco Botti-trained Planteur and recent addition Sandiva, who Dettori partnered to finish second in the Albany Stakes at Royal Ascot.