Doyle Blindsided by Shock Retainer Dumping

One of the world's most popular and in-demand jockeys, racingpost.com reports that Hollie Doyle has acknowledged her surprise at the timing of a significant career shift, with confirmation emerging on Monday that her five-year tenure as retained rider to Imad Al Sagar has ended. In a change of approach from the Derby-winning owner, Oisin Murphy will now assume the role when available, bringing a new chapter to Al Sagar’s team just as Doyle’s long-standing association draws to a close. The 27-year-old was first appointed in 2020 and has since partnered 38 winners under the blue and white silks, including a memorable trio of Group 1 triumphs on Nashwa during 2022 and 2023. Doyle learned of the decision on Friday, shortly after finishing second aboard Rouane at Newbury for Al Sagar. Writing in her column for At The Races, she said: “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.” Teddy Grimthorpe, Al Sagar’s racing manager, described the move as “a change of strategy.” He explained: “We've had some wonderful years with Hollie and Imad wanted to have a bit of a change. Our relationship with her is still strong and I hope it will continue to be so. Oisin will be the way forward when available. Oisin is contracted to Qatar Racing and Prince Faisal so I’d imagine we’d be third down. We’ve had a great time with Hollie but we felt it was time for a change.” Murphy now steps into the role with immediate effect.