Ryan Moore recently expressed deep gratitude to the "exceptional individuals" who have helped shape his remarkable journey in the world of horse racing, following the announcement that he will be enshrined in the British Racing Hall of Fame. The three‑time champion jockey, whose résumé boasts an extraordinary 230 Group/Grade One victories, will be formally celebrated at a ceremony held at Ascot on Qatar Racing British Champions Day, scheduled for 17 October.
Sharing the same evening with Moore, the legendary Aga Khan‑owned colt Shergar will also be honored with induction, making the event a dual tribute to both human and equine excellence. Moore took the opportunity to acknowledge the mentors, family members and trainers who have been instrumental from his early days as a jump rider for his father, Gary Moore, to his current status as a globe‑trotting superstar. "I am truly humbled to be welcomed into the British Racing Hall of Fame," he said.
"Throughout my career I have been blessed to work with some truly brilliant people." He continued, "My family's unwavering support was vital when I was just starting out, and I will always be grateful to Richard Hannon for the confidence he placed in me early on. I also owe a great debt of gratitude to Sir Michael Stoute and Aidan O'Brien, whose rides gave me the platform to compete at the highest level for many years. To be listed alongside them and other greats of the sport is an immense honour." Moore's induction makes him the 14th individual to join the Hall of Fame, joining an elite roster that includes such icons as Lester Piggott, Vincent O'Brien, Pat Eddery, Queen Elizabeth II, Frankie Dettori, Willie Carson, Sir Henry Cecil, Sir Michael Stoute, Prince Khalid Abdullah, Steve Cauthen, Aidan O'Brien, Jack Berry and Major Dick Hern.
Each of these figures has left an indelible mark on British racing, and Moore's addition underscores his own lasting impact. The ceremony will also celebrate Shergar, the 1981 Epsom Derby winner who triumphed by a record‑breaking ten lengths and subsequently claimed victories in the Irish Derby and the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot. Sherdar's racing brilliance was tragically eclipsed by his kidnapping in February 1983; the horse was never recovered, adding a poignant note to his legacy.
Shergar becomes the 14th horse to be inducted, following in the footsteps of other legendary thoroughbreds such as Frankel, Brigadier Gerard, Nijinsky, Mill Reef, Dayjur, Dancing Brave, Galileo, Sea The Stars, Stradivarius, Pebbles, Dubai Millennium, Goldikova and Enable. Sophie Able, co‑chair of the Hall of Fame selection panel, explained the reasoning behind the dual inductions: "The panel reached a unanimous decision that both Shergar and Ryan Moore are fully deserving of this honour. Shergar remains one of the most celebrated and iconic horses in British racing history, while Ryan's outstanding career and achievements in the saddle have established him as one of the great jockeys of his generation." Moore's career trajectory reads like a modern racing fairy‑tale.
Born into a racing family, he first cut his teeth riding over jumps for his father before transitioning to flat racing, where his natural balance, tactical acumen and calm composure quickly set him apart. Early breakthroughs came under the tutelage of trainer Richard Hannon, who gave the young jockey his first major opportunities on the flat.
Those chances blossomed into a partnership with Sir Michael Stoute, under whose guidance Moore secured multiple classic victories, including the 2009 2000 Guineas aboard Sea The Stars. A pivotal chapter unfolded when Moore began riding for Aidan O'Brien at the powerful Ballydoyle stable. Their collaboration produced a string of Group 1 triumphs across Europe, from the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe to the Irish Derby, cementing Moore's reputation as a versatile, globe‑spanning rider capable of delivering under pressure in any jurisdiction. His ability to adapt to different horses, tracks and racing cultures has made him a sought‑after jockey for owners and trainers worldwide.
Beyond the raw statistics, Moore's influence extends to the broader racing community. He is known for his professionalism, humility and dedication to the welfare of the horses he rides.
Colleagues often cite his meticulous preparation, from studying race replays to engaging with veterinarians and stable staff to ensure each mount is in optimal condition. Such commitment has earned him the respect of peers and the admiration of racing fans. The Hall of Fame induction not only recognises Moore's past achievements but also serves as a milestone that highlights the evolving nature of the sport.
As racing embraces new technologies, globalised training regimes and increased focus on animal welfare, figures like Moore embody the blend of tradition and modernity that keeps the sport vibrant. Looking ahead, Moore remains eager to add to his already impressive résumé.
He has hinted at targeting further classic victories, both in the UK and abroad, and continues to work closely with leading trainers to develop the next generation of champions. Whether guiding a seasoned star or a promising newcomer, his skill set and experience make him an invaluable asset on any race day.
In summary, the forthcoming ceremony at Ascot will celebrate two extraordinary chapters of British racing history: the unparalleled skill and dedication of Ryan Moore, now officially part of the Hall of Fame, and the enduring legacy of Shergar, whose brilliance on the track continues to inspire long after his tragic disappearance. Both inductees exemplify the spirit, excellence and timeless allure that define the sport, ensuring their stories will be remembered for generations to come.