Dettori lands Al Thani role Frankie Dettori has been appointed as the new retained rider for leading owner Sheikh Joaan Al Thani. Al Thani is one of the rising stars of the owning and breeding ranks with the likes of St James's Palace Stakes runner-up Toronado, Group One winner Olympic Glory and French 2,000 Guineas hero Style Vendome among his horses. He also recently purchased Naas Listed winner Sandiva, who Dettori partnered when second in the Albany Stakes at Royal Ascot. Dettori, whose long and successful partnership with Godolphin came to end last autumn, is delighted to have his new position confirmed. He said: "I'm thrilled to have taken a job for an outstanding new owner and I'm looking forward to the association." Al Thani, who also has the Marco Botti-trained Planteur in his British-based team, owns the Haras de Bouquetot stud farm in Normandy.
