Frankie Dettori breaks ribs in car crash
The racing jockey is in hospital recovering from the crash.
By BBC News
Frankie Dettori, the celebrated horse racing jockey, has been admitted to hospital after sustaining several broken ribs and a broken thumb following a serious car crash in Newmarket, Suffolk. His management team, H Talent Management, confirmed the injuries and stated that Dettori remains in hospital for further scans and observation while his condition is assessed.
The accident occurred on Wednesday evening, 1 July, on the A1304 London Road near Newmarket. According to representatives, another vehicle struck the rear passenger side of the car Dettori was driving, causing it to spin and flip violently.
The 55-year-old was taken to hospital immediately after the collision, where medical staff identified the broken ribs and thumb injury. Dettori’s focus is now on resting and recovering, with his team emphasising that his injuries are still being carefully evaluated.
The incident has been described by H Talent Management as an “accident,” though the exact cause of the collision remains under review. Police have been approached for comment, and the collision is believed to have happened just over the border in Cambridgeshire, prompting involvement from the Cambridgeshire Police force.
The racing world has reacted with concern to the news, given Dettori’s long and distinguished career in the sport. Known for his charismatic presence and exceptional skill, the jockey has been a central figure in British horse racing for decades.
His management team has not released further details about the timeline of his recovery but has confirmed that he is receiving full medical care. Newmarket, a key hub for horse racing in the UK, is home to many training facilities and is frequently used by top jockeys and trainers.
The crash occurred on a road that connects several major racing centres, making it a familiar route for those working in the industry. The timing of the accident, around 7pm on a Wednesday night, suggests it may have taken place during a routine journey rather than during a race or training session.
H Talent Management, which has represented Dettori for years, issued a formal statement confirming the details of the crash and the injuries sustained. The statement read: “H Talent Management can confirm that Frankie Dettori was involved in a road traffic accident in Newmarket on the evening of Wednesday, 1 July.
Another vehicle struck the rear passenger side of the car Frankie was driving, causing it to spin and flip. Frankie was taken to hospital, where he was found to have sustained several broken ribs and a broken thumb.
His injuries are still being assessed, and he remains in hospital for further scans and observation. His focus is now on resting and recovering.”
The incident has drawn attention from fellow jockeys, trainers, and racing fans, many of whom have expressed support for Dettori during this difficult time.
While no further information has been released about the other driver involved or the circumstances leading to the collision, authorities are expected to continue their investigation. Dettori’s career includes numerous high-profile victories, including multiple wins at the Arc de Triomphe and other prestigious races across Europe.
His presence in the sport has been marked by both his talent and his ability to connect with the public, making him one of the most recognised names in horse racing. As Dettori continues his recovery, his team has pledged to keep the public informed of any updates regarding his health.
The racing community will be watching closely, hoping for a full and swift return to form for the veteran jockey. The incident serves as a reminder of the risks that can accompany life on the road, even for those who spend their careers in controlled environments like racecourses.
No further details have been confirmed about the other vehicle involved or the driver, and police have not released a statement at this time. The focus remains on Dettori’s recovery, with his management team expressing confidence in his ability to heal and return to the sport he has loved for so long.