3 minute read

As the British flat season gets underway for 2023, racing sees the return of Italian star Frankie Dettori as he embarks on what looks set to be a swansong year in the saddle.

The Milan-born star announced his retirement intentions back in December and has enjoyed notable success internationally following a global riding stint based in California. The recent worldwide sabbatical featured visits to Meydan's Dubai World Cup Carnival and the Saudi Cup at Riyadh.

Frankie Dettori returns with three rides on the first day of Newmarket's three-day Craven meeting. The John and Thady Gosden-trained Unforgotten is his first port of call in the Close Brothers Handicap at 3:00.

The Earl Of Sefton Stakes (G3) will see Frankie once again team up with John and Thady Gosden as he gets aboard Reach For The Moon. Owned by His Majesty The King, this recently gelded son of Sea The Stars will be looking to get his career back on track with first-time blinkers applied for his reappearance.

The King's racing manager John Warren said, "We are pleased with how Reach For The Moon has wintered and we are hoping for a bold show".

However, his best chance of the day looks to be aboard the Juddmonte-owned Covey, who bids to shed his maiden tag at the second time of asking following a highly promising debut second at Southwell.

"You don't expect to run into a 90-something rated horse in a novice at Southwell, but unfortunately he bumped into one," said Barry Mahon, Juddmonte's racing manager.

When asked about Dettori's return, he added, "The main man is back from California. He has had a good winter out there and rode plenty of winners and hopefully he is looking forward to being back here and getting going again".