Daryl Jacob, the Grand National-winning jockey, has decided to retire after an incredible career, with his final race set for Sunday.
Jacob, 41, rode the Willie Mullins-trained Impaire Et Passe to victory in the Grade One Faugheen Novice Chase at Limerick on Saturday. The win was fitting for the Irishman to close his career, having delivered yet another triumph for long-time supporters Simon Munir and Isaac Souede.
Jacob’s retirement comes after a lengthy and successful journey in the saddle. He famously won the 2012 Grand National aboard Neptune Collonges, cementing his place in horse racing history.
Although he initially planned to retire at the end of the current National Hunt season, Jacob has chosen to end his career after the Leopardstown Christmas meeting.
Ending on His Terms
Jacob explained his decision:
“Retiring now feels like the right thing to do. I worked so hard to come back from injury this season, and I knew Christmas would bring some great opportunities, including the Grade One race.”
Winning the Faugheen Novice Chase was a special moment for Jacob, and he felt it was the perfect high note to retire on.
“To ride Impaire Et Passe to a Grade One win is a moment I’ll always treasure. Ending my career at Leopardstown, where I won my first Grade One, feels fitting,” he said.
Grateful for the Journey
Jacob expressed gratitude for being able to retire on his own terms:
“I’ve always wanted to go out riding good horses, and Impaire Et Passe is one of the best. He’s a very special horse to me, and this feels like the right way to end things.”
Jacob’s contribution to horse racing, from his Grand National win to countless other triumphs, leaves a lasting legacy in the sport.
