Ryan Moore is not expected to return to racing until next year, as trainer Aidan O’Brien disclosed on Thursday. The renowned jockey, who is affiliated with O’Brien’s esteemed Ballydoyle stable, has been sidelined since early September due to a stress fracture of the femur. O’Brien initially indicated that Moore would undergo an undefined recovery period, leading to Christophe Soumillon stepping in as a top-tier replacement.
During Moore’s absence, Soumillon has achieved significant success riding Ballydoyle horses, clinching four Group 1 victories in various prestigious races. Notably, Soumillon triumphed in the Irish Champion Stakes, Prix Marcel Boussac, Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere, and the Fillies’ Mile, showcasing his skill on Delacroix, Diamond Necklace, Puerto Rico, and Precise. Additionally, he secured a close second place in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe aboard Minnie Hauk.
This Saturday at Ascot, Soumillon, a ten-time French champion jockey, is set to participate in four Group 1 races on Qipco British Champion’s Day for O’Brien. His mounts include Stay True in the Long Distance Cup, Bedtime Story in the Fillies & Mares, The Lion In Winter in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes, and Delacroix in the Champion Stakes.
Despite Moore’s recent attendance at Newmarket fixtures as a spectator alongside O’Brien, it appears that Soumillon will continue as the primary jockey, supported by Wayne Lordan, for the remainder of 2025, including the upcoming Breeders’ Cup in November. O’Brien expressed confidence in Soumillon’s capabilities, noting Moore’s positive progress and hinting at a potential return next year.
During a media conference for Champions Day, O’Brien stated, “Christophe has been a valuable asset to us over the years, and it seems like Ryan is on the path to recovery.” When questioned about Moore’s comeback timeline, O’Brien suggested it would likely occur in the following year, emphasizing Moore’s focus on long-term rehabilitation over immediate returns.
