Jamie Spencer has been confirmed as the retained jockey for Sheikh Fahad Al Thani’s Qatar Racing operation.
Sheikh Fahad is the owner of Dunaden, winner of the 2011 Melbourne Cup and last week’s Caulfield Cup.
David Redvers, the owner’s racing manager and bloodstock advisor, has confirmed Spencer has signed a two-year contract with Sheikh Fahad.
“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,” Redvers said
The 31-year-old rider has had previous stints as stable jockey for Aidan O’Brien in Ireland while he has recently been retained to ride horses for owners Jim and Fitri Hay.
“Sheikh Fahad was very keen to get a team together and I’m delighted to have done so,” Redvers said.
“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 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 2.5 million 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,” Spencer said.
“Hopefully there are exciting times ahead.”
