Oisin Murphy Replaces Hollie Doyle As Retained Rider For Imad Al Sagar

Hollie Doyle's tenure as retained rider for Imad Al Sagar's Blue Diamond Stud has ended. Champion jockey Oisin Murphy will become the new first-call rider for the operation.

The best runner ridden by Doyle in the Al Sagar silks was undoubtedly the G1 Prix de Diane-winning Nashwa (Frankel), who also landed top-flight scores in the Nassau Stakes and Falmouth Stakes with Doyle aboard.

Said Al Sagar's racing manager Teddy Grimthorpe, “We're keen to stress that we have had a fantastic relationship with Hollie throughout, and we hope that will continue for many years to come in different forms.

“There are, however, moments when it is time for a change and Imad felt this was the right time to move on. We will now use Oisin, when available, in the absence of Hollie.”

Doyle told attheraces.com, “Unfortunately, I was informed on Friday I'd lost my long-standing retainer with leading owner Imad Al Sagar. It came as a bit of a shock, particularly at this stage of the season.

“I've been a part of Imad's operation for five years, riding 38 winners including at the highest of levels. We've enjoyed numerous stakes winners, a Royal Ascot winner and a Classic winner with the wonderful Nashwa in the Prix de Diane in 2022, followed by two further Group 1 successes.

“I have nothing but the utmost respect for Imad and would like to thank him for giving me such an amazing opportunity at a formative stage of my career. I wish him and the team the very best of luck in the future.”