Dual British champion Jamie Spencer will retire from riding at the end of the season to take up a position with Qatar Racing.
The 34-year-old is currently the retained rider for the powerful operation but will work closely alongside Sheikh Fahad Al Thani and his bloodstock advisor David Redvers providing feedback and advice on their horses from 2015.
“This is a fantastic opportunity and if I have learned anything in my riding career it is that you should take such opportunities when they come along,” Spencer said.
“As much as I love race riding, it is not something I want to do for the rest of my life and while I am not necessarily ready to retire now, I feel at a stage when I am ready for a change.
Spencer burst onto the scene when he won the Irish 1000 Guineas aboard Tarascon in 1998 at the age of 17 and has enjoyed plenty of big-race winners during a career in which he spent the 2004 season as stable rider for Aidan O’Brien.
The godson of Coolmore boss John Magnier, Spencer has been retained rider for Qatar Racing since 2013, with Just The Judge providing a memorable first Classic success for the team in last year’s Irish 1000 Guineas.
“Ever since we signed up Jamie he has impressed us with his commitment and contribution,” Redvers said.
“I am delighted that we will continue to benefit from his insight, enthusiasm and invaluable experience.
“Jamie will continue to ride for Qatar Racing for the rest of the year. With regard to riding arrangements for 2015, we hope to be in a position to clarify the plans shortly.”
Emerging young talent Andrea Atzeni, currently number one for rider for Roger Varian, is the odds-on favourite to be appointed as the new jockey for Qatar Racing.
