British Champion Jockey Jack Mitchell Embarks on UAE Racing Adventure
Award-winning rider Jack Mitchell will commence his Dubai racing campaign this autumn, joining the celebrated Simon Crisford stable following a triumphant Group 1 victory in Germany.
British jockey Jack Mitchell is set to begin an exciting new chapter in his distinguished racing career, arriving in the United Arab Emirates from 29th October to compete in the prestigious Dubai racing season. The accomplished horseman will align himself with the renowned Simon Crisford stable, one of international racing’s most respected operations.
Mitchell’s move comes on the heels of a momentous achievement—securing his maiden Group 1 victory aboard Saddadd in the Grosser Preis Von Baden in Germany, mounted in the colours of the late Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This landmark success has substantially elevated his profile within British racing circles and furnished him with considerable confidence as he embarks upon this international venture.
Speaking of his appointment, Mitchell expressed considerable enthusiasm for the partnership. “I’m excited about working for Simon; I’ve ridden for the stable for quite a while, and we’ve had quite a lot of success and a good relationship, so hopefully that continues,” he remarked. Operating on a freelance basis, Mitchell will maintain availability for Simon Crisford when required, a flexible arrangement that reflects his standing within the sport.
The 55-kilogramme minimum riding weight requirement represents a considered factor in Mitchell’s transition to UAE racing. Though his prior Dubai experience remains limited—having ridden on just two occasions, most recently finishing seventh on German-bred Sisfahan in the 2023 Group 2 Dubai Gold Cup—he brings considerable expertise across both Thoroughbred and Arabian racing disciplines.
Mitchell, now represented by prominent agent Carl Hodgson, has acknowledged the distinctive challenges presented by dirt-track racing. Characterising the surface as “a new challenge, but another aspect to our riding as jockeys,” he demonstrates the adaptability and professional approach that has defined his career trajectory.
His arrival forms part of the broader international interest in Dubai’s racing calendar, which continues to attract world-class talent to the Emirates’ thriving equestrian sector.
Source: WAM