Renowned jockey Ryan Moore is not expected to return to racing until next year, as confirmed by trainer Aidan O’Brien. Moore, who holds the prestigious position of being the top jockey globally and is under contract to ride for O’Brien’s esteemed Ballydoyle stable, has been sidelined since early September due to a stress fracture of the femur. O’Brien had initially indicated that Moore, aged 42, would face an undetermined period of recovery, leading to the recruitment of Christophe Soumillon as a high-caliber replacement.

During Moore’s absence, Soumillon has achieved remarkable success on Ballydoyle horses, securing victories in four Group 1 races including the Irish Champion Stakes, Prix Marcel Boussac, Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere, and the Fillies’ Mile. Additionally, Soumillon guided Minnie Hauk to a close second place in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.

This weekend at Ascot, Soumillon, a ten-time French champion jockey, is set to ride in four Group 1 races for O’Brien on Qipco British Champion’s Day. 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 attending recent Newmarket events as a spectator alongside O’Brien, it appears that Soumillon will continue in the role for the remainder of 2025, which includes the upcoming Breeders’ Cup in November. O’Brien expressed confidence in Soumillon’s performance, noting Moore’s progress and positive outlook.

Addressing Moore’s potential return, O’Brien mentioned during a media conference for Champions Day, “I would imagine it will be next year. I can’t see any different.” He emphasized Moore’s focus on long-term recovery and strategic planning over short-term considerations.