The world-famous jockey, who made a U-turn from his original retirement plans in 2023 by moving from Britain for a successful stint in the United States, will ride in three countries across the continent before hanging up his saddle for good.
Dettori had said during the Breeders’ Cup that the Chilean Derby at Valparaiso Sporting in February would be his final farewell. However, it appears racing is not on his radar now and he is instead retiring in Brazil.
Where will Dettori’s farewell tour take him?
Dettori’s first stop is Argentina, where he will ride in San Isidro in the capital Buenos Aires on December 13. He has raced in the country before, in Palermo in 2008.
He will then cross the Rio de la Plata into Uruguay for the country’s biggest race, the Gran Premio Internacional Jose Pedro Ramirez (G1), which takes place on January 6 in Maronas in the capital Montevideo.
For the last hurray, it will be Brazil, instead of the original plan Chile, where Dettori completes his record-breaking career. Although an exact date has not yet been confirmed, he will be at Gavea Racecourse in Rio de Janeiro for a celebration in his honor on February 2 or 3, according to Argentine racing publication Turf Diario.
Gavea is said to be one of the most picturesque circuits in the world, overlooked by the statue of Christ the Redeemer, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
What is the Gran Premio Carlos Pellegrini?
Dettori’s adventure in Argentina is not a holiday, as he will be riding on one of the country’s most prestigious race days – and in the big race itself.
The Gran Premio Carlos Pellegrini is Class 1 over a mile and a half and is branded as South America’s equivalent of the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. It takes place on a left-handed artificial grass court, which is European in style.
The Carlos Pellegrini was first raced in 1887 and is valued at ARS500,000,000 (approximately US$348,530). The card also features the Copa de Plata (G1), Joaquin S de Anchorena (G1) and Feliz de Alzaga Unzue (G1).
Dettori is ready to ride Pulque in the big race, but he won’t be the only global star jockey taking part. Joao Moreira is bidding for his first win and he has been specifically booked to partner Brazil’s hopes Obataye .
The Carlos Pellegrini is that it is a Win and You’re In competition for the 2026 Breeders’ Cup Turf (G1T) at Keeneland.
How is Argentina preparing for Dettori’s arrival?
The country’s racegoers are preparing to give Dettori a classic, extravagant South American welcome on his return there.
Pablo Carrizo, spokesperson for San Isidro Racecourse, said: “It is very exciting to see a world-famous figure like Frankie competing in the most important horse race in Argentina and South America. It is a great opportunity for us to have him close to the fans as he is a real celebrity.
“We look forward to his arrival and we know that people will welcome him with all their affection and warmth, just as Frankie will in turn. In Argentina, many people do not know much about international horse racing, but everyone knows Frankie and the worldwide fame that he brings.
“The day attracts tens of thousands of fans, and the one with the largest attendance. Adding Frankie is an added incentive, and there will certainly be many more fans coming to see a world-famous figure like him.”
Carrizo believes Dettori could be a perfect fit for the course and hopes he will surprise his South American fans on Saturday with one of his renowned acts.
“We hope he can win in his world-famous flying dismount,” he said. “This would be unforgettable for the Argentinian public and a moment we would cherish forever.
“San Isidro is a very European track with wide bends, straights uphill and downhill, and with plenty of room to maneuver. It is an ideal track for Frankie. The best horses from Argentina and Brazil will run, but Frankie’s horse has relatively good chances against a very demanding field.”
What did Dettori say about it?
His last dance may be a long way from where he had some of his greatest moments, but Dettori is keen to leave his mark on South American racing.
He told Turf Diario: “People have been asking me to come ride in South America for a long time, but my commitments never allowed it. Now it felt like the right time to return that affection with a farewell tour, and the fact that we are about to make it happen means a lot to me.
“I’m excited to go there, give the crowd my very best and thank them for all the love they’ve shown me over the years.”
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