Trainer Aidan O’Brien recently shared that Ryan Moore is not expected to return to racing until next year. Moore, the top jockey affiliated with O’Brien’s Ballydoyle stable, has been out of action since early September due to a stress fracture of the femur. Christophe Soumillon has been filling in admirably during Moore’s absence, securing victories in several high-profile races aboard Ballydoyle horses.
Soumillon is set to continue riding for O’Brien at Ascot this weekend, participating in four Group 1 races on Qipco British Champion’s Day. Despite Moore’s presence at recent race meetings as a spectator, it appears that Soumillon will maintain his role for the remainder of 2025, including the upcoming Breeders’ Cup in November.
O’Brien expressed confidence in Soumillon’s performance, noting that Moore is progressing well but is likely to take his time returning to competitive racing. The trainer emphasized that Moore’s focus is on long-term recovery rather than rushing back prematurely.