British jockey Jack Mitchell is preparing for a new professional chapter in the UAE, with his arrival scheduled for October 29. The 37-year-old enters this stint on a career high, having recently secured his maiden Group 1 victory aboard Saddadd in the Grosser Preis Von Baden, Germany. The win, achieved in the colors of the late Sheikh Ahmed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has provided the veteran rider with significant momentum as he pivots toward the Dubai season. According to jack Mitchell, He gets on with everyone and it’s easy to believe. Chatty and on the crest of a wave having recently ridden his first G1 winner, the 37-year-old British jockey is cheerful. With the confidence of that win behind him, Mitchell will arrive in the UAE on 29 October relishing the challenge ahead.
Mitchell will integrate with the Simon Crisford stable, a team with which he maintains a long-standing and successful professional relationship. While he intends to ride for the stable whenever required, he will operate primarily as a freelance jockey. Having only competed in Dubai twice previously—most recently finishing seventh on Sisfahan in the 2023 G2 Dubai Gold Cup—Mitchell views this as a calculated move rather than a whim, noting that he had considered the switch for several years. “I’m excited about working for Simon, I’ve ridden for the stable for quite a while and we’ve had quite a lot of success and a good relationship, so hopefully that continues,” he says.
Reflecting on the decision to relocate, Mitchell noted that his maturity influenced the timing. At 37, he feels more established in the UK, which has alleviated concerns regarding his career continuity upon returning home. He credits his recent G1 success with providing the professional security necessary to pursue this opportunity. Addressing the appeal of the region, he contrasted the relentless seven-day riding schedule in the UK with the more balanced lifestyle offered in the UAE.
Beyond the track, Mitchell intends to utilize his free time by pursuing personal interests. As a qualified pilot, he is exploring local flight school options in Abu Dhabi or Ras Al Khaimah. He also plans to take up padel and golf, activities that offer a change of pace from the demanding UK racing circuit, which often involves winter travel to locations like Newcastle for solitary rides.
Regarding his racing preparation, Mitchell has aligned with prominent agent Carl Hodgson and enters the season with a minimum riding weight of 55kg. His expertise spans both Thoroughbreds and Arabians, and he is eager to adapt to the specialized demands of dirt track racing. He views the surface as a distinct professional challenge that will broaden his tactical versatility in the saddle.
The victory at Baden-Baden remains a career milestone for Mitchell, particularly because it was achieved for trainer Roger Varian. He recalled that the race day atmosphere was surprisingly calm, with his confidence fueled by the horse’s strong form and his own familiarity with the German circuit. The realization of the win only truly solidified when he caught sight of the car cameraman trailing the field.
This shift to Dubai represents a balance of professional ambition and personal enrichment. By stepping away from the intense winter cycle in Britain, Mitchell is positioning himself to maintain his form while enjoying a fresh environment. His pragmatic approach to his career—navigating both the highs of G1 success and the logistical demands of a global riding schedule—underscores his commitment to longevity in the sport.
