Frankie Dettori was rushed to hospital on 1st July after a car crash in Newmarket, Suffolk. The legendary jockey suffered several injuries, including a broken thumb and ribs.
What happened?
The car Dettori was driving was hit by another vehicle, causing it to spin and flip over. Emergency services rushed to the scene and took Dettori to hospital for treatment.
Injuries and recovery
Dettori's representatives, H Talent Management, confirmed that he sustained several broken ribs and a broken thumb. He remains in hospital for further observation and will need time to rest and recover from his injuries.
Statement from Frankie Dettori
Posting on Instagram from his hospital bed, Dettori said: "Thank you, everyone, for your kind messages and support. I’m very sore and have a few broken ribs, so I’ll be taking some time to rest and recover."
Career and achievements
Dettori hung up his saddle earlier this year, bringing an end to his illustrious career that spanned almost 40 years. He is a three-time British flat racing Champion Jockey and won 288 Grade 1 races, cementing his status as one of the greatest figures in the history of racing.
Dettori's finest achievement came at Ascot in October 1996 when he famously rode home all seven winners at the race meeting. He has not ridden in Britain since October 2023, when he bowed out in style with a Champion Stakes victory aboard King Of Steel at Ascot.
After spending almost his entire life racing, Dettori opted to step away in November 2025 following the Breeders' Cup in the United States. He now resides in California with his family.
The incident is not the first time Dettori has been involved in a vehicular incident. In 2000, he was involved in a horrific plane crash that claimed the life of pilot Patrick Mackey. Dettori suffered a broken ankle and damaged his thumb in the crash.
Dettori's fans feared the worst after hearing the news of the car crash. His representatives have asked that his privacy is respected at this time, and no further comment will be made until there is a meaningful update on his condition.
Dettori's focus is now on resting and recovering from his injuries. He has thanked the emergency services and medical team for their care and support.
The racing community will be hoping for a speedy recovery for the legendary jockey. Dettori's career has been marked by numerous achievements and accolades, including an honorary MBE in the 2001 New Year's Honours.
As Dettori recovers from his injuries, his fans will be looking forward to seeing him back in the public eye soon. The exact timeline for his recovery is not yet clear, but his representatives will provide updates as necessary.
For now, Dettori remains in hospital, focusing on his recovery and thanking his fans for their support. His injury is a reminder of the risks and challenges faced by athletes, even after they have retired from competition.
Dettori's legacy in the world of horse racing is secure, and his fans will be hoping that he makes a full recovery from his injuries. The legendary jockey has inspired countless people with his achievements and dedication to the sport.
As the news of Dettori's car crash spread, fans and fellow athletes took to social media to wish him a speedy recovery. The outpouring of support is a testament to Dettori's popularity and respect within the racing community.
Dettori's recovery will be closely watched by his fans and the racing community. His injury is a setback, but his determination and spirit will likely see him through this challenging time.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for caution when driving. Dettori's accident could have had more severe consequences, and his fans will be grateful that he is expected to make a full recovery.
For now, Dettori will focus on his recovery, and his fans will be waiting anxiously for updates on his condition. The legendary jockey has a long and challenging road ahead of him, but his strength and resilience will likely see him through