Aga Khan snaps up Johnny Murtagh
As with most talented professionals, it didn’t take long for Johnny Murtagh to get back to work.
Two weeks ago the Irishman resigned as stable jockey for Aiden O’Brien, but it was announced today that he has been retained to ride all of the Aga Khan's Irish-trained horses for next season. The move sees Murtagh team up with John Oxx, who trains for the Aga Khan, for whom he rode the Derby, Irish Derby and Arc winner Sinndar during his time as stable jockey to the trainer from 1992 to 2003. Along with Oxx, trainer Mick Halford, who has 30 horses with the Aga Khan, will also be able to call upon the hugely experienced jock.
Murtagh said in a statement: "I am thrilled to be renewing my association with His Highness' horses in Ireland. We have shared some fantastic moments and I have always enjoyed riding in the green and red colours. This will also give me an opportunity to ride for John Oxx again. I started off riding for Mr Oxx and it has always been a pleasure to be part of his Currabeg team.”
One man who won’t be delighted with the news is Fran Berry, who was appointed as Oxx's stable jockey at the start of this year but now will have to look elsewhere following the new appointment. There is talk suggesting that Berry ticks all the boxes to replace Murtagh at Ballydoyle, but it would be a surprise to see the 29-year-old pick up such a high-profile role.
The owner's website read: "The Aga Khan Studs would like to thank Fran for the many winners he has ridden in the Aga Khan's colours and, if the opportunity arises, he will be called upon to ride the Aga Khan Irish-trained horses in the future."
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