Episode 485.UMBERTO RISPOLI- 🏇🌹World-Class Thoroughbred Jockey🌹🏇
Career and Achievements
Early Career in Europe & Japan
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Rispoli embarked on his apprenticeship in 2005 after training at Luigi Camici’s stable. His debut occurred in Varese, followed closely by his first victory aboard Pacemaker.
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He quickly emerged as a leading jockey in Italy—setting a new national record with 245 wins in 2009 and repeating as Champion Jockey in 2010.
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Internationally, Rispoli triumphed in Group 1 races across Japan (Takamatsunomiya Kinen, 2011), Hong Kong (Queen Elizabeth II Cup, 2012), and France (Prix du Cadran, 2012; Critérium International, 2014)
Move to Hong Kong and the United States
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Between 2012 and 2016, Rispoli was based in France before relocating to Hong Kong under the Hong Kong Jockey Club until December 2019.
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In late 2019, he established residence in Southern California, ultimately competing full-time in the US from 2020 onward.
Success in North America
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His U.S. tenure has been marked by substantial success in graded and Grade 1 races. Highlights include victories aboard Rock Your World (Santa Anita Derby, 2021), Smooth Like Strait, Going to Vegas, Ocean Road, Formidable Man, and Journalism in various Grade 1 events through 2025.
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As of May–June 2025, Rispoli had tallied over 600 career wins worldwide and accrued nearly US $50 million in purse earnings.
Historic Triple Crown Victory
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On May 17, 2025, Rispoli made history as the first Italian jockey to win a US Triple Crown race by guiding Journalism to victory in the Preakness Stakes.
Recent Performance
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In 2025 alone, he secured several Grade 1 victories, including the Santa Anita Derby and the Frank E. Kilroe Mile Stakes, demonstrating exceptional form.
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He continued to be a prominent contender through the Belmont Stakes, where Journalism aimed for another Triple Crown victory under his guidance.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Origins | Born in the Marche region, raised in Scampia (Naples), Italy |
| Career Launch | Apprentice debut in 2005; rapid rise in Italian racing |
| International Success | Group 1 victories in Europe, Japan, and Hong Kong |
| US Base | Relocated to Southern California, 2019–20 |
| Major Wins | Numerous Grade 1 races—including Santa Anita Derby, Preakness Stakes (2025) |
| Career Totals | Over 600 wins and ~$50M in purses as of mid-2025 |
In summary, Umberto Rispoli stands as a consummate professional with a stellar international record, culminating in his trailblazing Preakness triumph. His journey—from the challenging streets of Scampia to the winner’s circle of US Triple Crown racing—is a testament to his skill, resilience, and ambition.