Spencer retained by Qatar Racing
Jamie Spencer has been confirmed as the retained jockey for Sheikh Fahad Al Thani’s Qatar Racing operation, David Redvers, the owner’s racing manager and bloodstock advisor, has confirmed.
The former champion jockey has signed a two-year contract with Sheikh Fahad, whose horses run under the Qatar and Pearl Bloodstock banners.
Redvers said: “I can confirm that we have agreed terms and that Jamie Spencer will be first jockey for Qatar Racing on a two-year contract, starting from January 1.”
The 31-year-old rider has had previous stints as stable jockey for Aidan O’Brien, while he has recently been retained to ride horses for owners Jim and Fitri Hay.
Redvers said: ``Sheikh Fahad was very keen to get a team together and I'm delighted to have done so.
“Harry Bentley will be retained as our second jockey and will ride most of the horses out of Robin’s Farm (trained by Olly Stevens). ”One or the other will ride all of the horses and if for whatever reason they can’t, then we’ll use the best available.“
Sheikh Fahad sponsors Champions Day at Ascot through his Qipco banner, and recently paid 2.5million guineas for a three-parts brother to Derby winner Authorized.
Spencer, who was crowned joint-champion jockey with Seb Sanders in 2007, is excited about his new role.
“I’m delighted to become part of a team going forward that has invested so heavily in the sport,” said Spencer.
“Hopefully there are exciting times ahead.”
