After a remarkable three-decade-long career, Olivier Peslier, one of France’s most celebrated jockeys, has announced his retirement. The 51-year-old will bid farewell to riding on Thursday at La Teste in southwestern France, concluding an illustrious journey marked by numerous triumphs on both domestic and international stages.
Olivier Peslier, one of the most successful jockeys of all time, has announced his retirement from riding after an incredible 35-year career. The Frenchman, 53, banged home 3,700 winners around the world, including 165 at Group 1 level. He will take his final two mounts at La Teste racecourse near Bordeaux on Thursday before saying au revoir to his riding career. Peslier was the go-to man in big Group 1 races around the world in his pomp in the late 90s and early 2000s, steering the likes of High-Rise, Cockney Rebel and Goldikova to famous victories. He also rode four winners of the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, Europe’s most prestigious race. Paying tribute to Peslier, fellow jockey Frankie Dettori said: “He is one of the true greats of our sport. He has been a great rival and a great friend. I wish him all the best in his retirement.”
