Ryan Moore took a moment to acknowledge the "brilliant people" who have shaped his remarkable journey in the saddle after the news broke that he would be welcomed into 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 an Ascot ceremony held during Qatar Racing’s British Champions Day on 17 October. Sharing the same honor on that day is the legendary Aga Khan‑owned Shergar, whose tragic story has become part of racing folklore.
Moore used the occasion to name‑check the mentors, family members and owners who have helped him evolve from a fledgling jump rider for his father, trainer Gary Moore, into a globe‑trotting, internationally recognised superstar. "I’m deeply humbled to be inducted into the British Racing Hall of Fame," Moore said.
"Throughout my career I’ve been incredibly lucky to work with some truly brilliant people." He went on to highlight the pivotal role his family played in his early development, noting that their unwavering support gave him the confidence to pursue a professional path. "My family's encouragement was essential when I was just starting out," he explained.
"Equally, Richard Hannon placed a great deal of faith in me during those formative years, giving me rides that helped me prove my worth." Moore also expressed particular gratitude to two of the sport’s most respected trainers: Sir Michael Stoute and Aidan O'Brien. "Both Sir Michael and Aidan have offered me countless opportunities over the years, and I’m especially grateful for the rides they entrusted to me," he said. "To be recognised alongside them and the other legends who have left such an indelible mark on racing is a true privilege." His induction makes Moore the 14th individual to join the Hall of Fame, joining an elite roster that includes icons such 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 contributed uniquely to the sport, and Moore’s addition underscores his status as one of the pre‑eminent jockeys of his generation.
The ceremony will also celebrate Shergar, the 1981 Epsom Derby winner who captured the race by a record‑breaking ten lengths and subsequently triumphed in the Irish Derby and the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot. Sherdar’s brilliance on the track was tragically eclipsed by his kidnapping in February 1983; the horse was never recovered, and his disappearance remains one of the most heartbreaking chapters in racing history. His induction marks the 14th horse to be honoured, following in the footsteps of such luminaries 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, praised both inductees. "The panel reached a unanimous decision that Shergar and Ryan Moore are both truly deserving of entry into the British Racing Hall of Fame," she said. "Shergar continues to be one of the most celebrated and iconic horses in British racing history, while Ryan’s outstanding career and achievements in the saddle have cemented his reputation as one of the great jockeys of his era." Moore’s career trajectory provides a compelling narrative of dedication, skill and the power of collaboration.
Beginning his professional life as an amateur rider in National Hunt races, he quickly demonstrated a natural affinity for timing, balance and tactical acumen. His transition to flat racing was facilitated by his father’s connections and the early trust placed in him by trainers like Richard Hannon, who offered him the chance to ride promising two‑year‑olds and three‑year‑olds in maiden and listed events. Those early rides laid the groundwork for Moore’s ascent to the sport’s upper echelons. A pivotal moment arrived when Sir Michael Stoute, a trainer renowned for his patience and eye for talent, selected Moore for high‑profile rides in the early 2010s.
Their partnership produced multiple Group 1 victories, most notably in the 2012 2000 Guineas aboard Camelot and the 2013 Epsom Derby on Ruler of the World. These successes amplified Moore’s reputation, leading to a fruitful association with Aidan O'Brien at the Ballydoyle stables. Under O'Brien’s guidance, Moore added a string of classic wins to his résumé, including the Irish Derby, the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe and numerous Royal Ascot triumphs.
Beyond the statistics, Moore is celebrated for his calm demeanor, analytical approach to race riding and an uncanny ability to adapt his tactics mid‑race. Colleagues often remark on his meticulous preparation, studying race replays, track conditions and the form of rivals to craft a winning plan. This intellectual rigor, combined with his natural athleticism, has allowed him to maintain peak performance across a wide variety of distances, surfaces and international venues.
Moore’s influence extends beyond the finish line. He has become a mentor to younger jockeys, sharing insights on everything from weight management to mental resilience.
His professionalism has helped elevate the public perception of jockeys as not merely athletes but also strategic thinkers and ambassadors for the sport. As the Hall of Fame ceremony approaches, the racing community anticipates a night of reflection and celebration, honoring both the human and equine contributors who have shaped British racing’s storied legacy.
For Ryan Moore, the induction serves as a testament to decades of hard work, the support of his family and mentors, and the countless owners, trainers and fans who have placed their trust in his abilities. It also reinforces the timeless truth that behind every great jockey lies a network of brilliant people whose collective effort makes greatness possible.