British jockey Jack Mitchell is set to bring his newfound momentum to the UAE, with plans to arrive on October 29 for a fresh professional challenge. The 37-year-old enters this season on a career high, having recently secured his maiden Group 1 victory aboard Saddadd in the Grosser Preis Von Baden, held in Germany under the colours of the late Sheikh Ahmed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Chatty and on the crest of a wave having recently ridden his first G1 winner, the 37-year-old British jockey is cheerful. That G1 winner helped a bit in that I’m more established for when I come back so I don’t have to worry too much.”. According to jack Mitchell, He gets on with everyone and it’s easy to believe.
Mitchell, known for his upbeat personality, sees this stint in Dubai as an ideal opportunity to balance his professional ambitions with a change of pace. He intends to work as a freelance rider while remaining available to support the Simon Crisford stable when required. Mitchell has long maintained a positive relationship with the Crisford team and expressed excitement about continuing that collaboration abroad.
Reflecting on his career stage, the father of three noted that his recent success has provided him with the professional security needed to explore new territories. “I’m 37 now, not 21,” he remarked, explaining that he had contemplated a Dubai stint for several years but previously found it difficult to leave his commitments in the UK. His recent top-tier win has afforded him the confidence to step away from his UK schedule without professional risk.
While he has only ridden in Dubai twice previously—most notably finishing seventh on Sisfahan in the 2023 G2 Dubai Gold Cup—Mitchell is no stranger to the region, having visited frequently for holidays. He finds the prospect of riding three or four times a week in the UAE more appealing than the grueling, cold-weather schedule of domestic UK racing. “We were confident enough as on form he only really had to beat [G1 Longines Dubai Sheema Classic third] Giavellotto.
The jockey, who holds the distinction of being the UK’s only rider with a pilot’s licence, plans to make the most of his downtime in the Emirates. His schedule includes picking up padel and golf, and he has investigated local flight schools in Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah to utilize his aviation qualifications. Mitchell is now represented by top agent Carl Hodgson and enters the season with a minimum riding weight of 55kg.
Regarding the technical demands of the upcoming campaign, Mitchell acknowledges that racing on dirt surfaces will be a unique experience. He views the surface as a new challenge that will add another dimension to his skills as a jockey. He brings extensive experience riding both Arabians and Thoroughbreds to the table, and his ability to adapt is regarded by peers as a key asset.
His recent victory in Germany for trainer Roger Varian remains a standout moment of his professional life. Describing the race, Mitchell admitted he felt surprisingly calm, noting that the victory only felt truly confirmed when he caught sight of a track cameraman. “I knew I’d won but I still wasn’t sure until I saw the car cameraman who follows you around. I looked across and saw him and thought ‘ahh, brilliant!'” he recalled.
As he prepares for his departure, the jockey remains focused on a productive season. With a calm temperament that serves him well both in the cockpit and the saddle, Mitchell is eager to integrate into the Dubai racing community and test his abilities against international competition.
