James Doyle to Join Wathnan Racing as Lead Jockey

James Doyle to Join Wathnan Racing as Retained Rider for 2024 Flat Season

In a surprising turn of events, James Doyle, the esteemed jockey who has been serving as second rider for Godolphin since 2015, will be making a shift to join Wathnan Racing as their number one rider for the upcoming 2024 Flat season.

Doyle’s collaboration with Godolphin has been fruitful, marked by his notable victory in the prestigious 2000 Guineas aboard Charlie Appleby’s Coroebus back in 2022. However, with his contract set to expire at the end of this year, he has decided to embark on a new chapter of his riding career alongside Qatar-based Wathnan Racing.

This unexpected move was made public through an official statement released by Wathan Racing on Monday afternoon. In it, Doyle expressed his excitement and gratitude towards His Highness Sheikh Tamim’s team: “It is a tremendous honor for me to sign for Wathnan. It’s an amazing opportunity going forward and I’m greatly looking forward to working with Olly Tait, Richard Brown and the rest of the team.”

The veteran jockey also took this opportunity to thank His Highness Sheikh Mohammed and everyone at Godolphin for their unwavering support throughout his nine-year tenure. Reflecting upon his time with Godolphin, Doyle stated: “It’s been a wonderful journey filled with countless cherished moments. But now I am thrilled about this incredible new venture that awaits me come January.”

Already showcasing his potential synergy with Wathnan Racing prior to officially joining them next year, Doyle guided Adrian Keatley’s Ballymount Boy home at Doncaster last Saturday while donning the distinctive colors associated with his future team.

With numerous high-profile mounts on the horizon, including Ascot Gold Cup hero Courage Mon Ami and fellow Royal Ascot winner Gregory, Doyle’s transition to Wathnan Racing promises an exciting array of opportunities.

Charlie Appleby, who has enjoyed a successful partnership with Doyle at Godolphin, expressed his admiration for the jockey’s contribution: “James has been a key member of our team throughout his entire time with us. Although we will miss him greatly, he leaves with our blessings and best wishes for this new chapter in his riding career.”

The accomplished trainer reminisced about their shared victories on the racecourse, mentioning Coroebus’ triumph in the 2000 Guineas as well as other noteworthy rides aboard stable stars like Blue Point and Naval Crown. Appleby made it clear that whenever possible, they would continue to enlist Doyle’s services due to his exceptional skills as a world-class jockey.

Olly Tait, Adviser for Wathnan Racing, expressed delight over securing James Doyle as their retained rider: “Wathnan is thrilled to have acquired the services of such an incredible addition like James Doyle. He brings immense talent and skill to the team. We eagerly anticipate working closely together in the coming years.”

This unexpected transfer adds an exhilarating twist to next year’s Flat season. Fans are eagerly awaiting how James Doyle will fare in his new role at Wathan Racing while bidding farewell to his previous alliance with Godolphin.