Billy Loughnane has signed a retainer with Godolphin and will ride in the operation’s royal blue colours next year. Britain’s newly crowned 20-year-old champion jockey will be one of two retained riders, alongside William Buick, rather than the stable’s sole No 1 jockey.
Loughnane said last month that his main ambition for 2027 was to ride more Group One winners. His new role is expected to bring him more chances in major races, although how Godolphin’s top-level rides will be divided between him and Buick remains uncertain. Buick had 32 rides in Group One races in Britain in 2026, while only Ryan Moore had more, with 34.
The deal formalises a relationship that began during Loughnane’s apprenticeship. He rode his first Group One winner aboard Godolphin’s Rebel’s Romance in Berlin in August 2025. This season, he also won the 2,000 Guineas on Bow Echo and recorded his first Breeders’ Cup victory at Keeneland.
Loughnane has often been compared with Frankie Dettori, Godolphin’s first and most successful No 1 rider. His talent, confidence and ability to connect with crowds have prompted hopes that he could become a prominent public face for racing. However, the sport’s media landscape has changed since Dettori became a household name through television, and Loughnane has resisted the comparisons.
The new contract should give Loughnane opportunities on leading contenders in many of the season’s biggest races. It will also bring greater scrutiny, particularly when trainer Charlie Appleby has a fancied runner in a Classic or Group One and must choose a jockey. Loughnane’s ride on Libertango, after making the weight of 8st 5lb, was cited as further evidence of his composure in major races.
Sources: The Guardian Sport.