Olivier Peslier, a legendary figure in French horse racing, has announced his retirement after an illustrious career spanning over 30 years. The 51-year-old jockey will bid farewell to the sport on Thursday at La Teste in southwestern France, bringing the curtain down on a remarkable journey filled with countless victories and accolades.
Peslier’s unparalleled achievements include four Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe triumphs, the pinnacle of European horse racing. He also enjoyed remarkable success on the international stage, claiming three Breeders’ Cup Miles aboard the brilliant mare Goldikova. In addition, Peslier captured prestigious victories in Britain, including the Epsom Derby and 2,000 Guineas, and the prestigious Japan Cup.
Recalling his extraordinary career, Peslier shared with the Racing Post, “I have earned more than 3,700 victories around the world, including 502 Group race wins and 165 Group 1s, even in Arabian races.” He continued, “Like everyone, my time has come. I’m slightly younger than Frankie Dettori and will be retiring just before him. It’s been an extraordinary career, and I hope I can say it’s been an exemplary one.”
Throughout his illustrious career, Peslier rode as a stable jockey for Andre Fabre and spent 11 seasons as the retained rider for Alan and Gerard Wertheimer, the owners of Goldikova and his final Arc winner, Solemia, in 2012. Before that, he completed an Arc hat-trick with Helissio in 1996, Peintre Celebre in 1997, and Sagamix in 1998.
Peslier’s incredible achievements also include Derby victory on High-Rise in 1998 and the 2,000 Guineas on Cockney Rebel in 2007. He also guided Harbinger to an 11-length success in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot in 2010.
As Olivier Peslier takes his final bow, the racing world pays tribute to his exceptional contributions to the sport. His legacy as one of France’s greatest jockeys will undoubtedly inspire future generations of riders.
