Five more years: Dettori plays down shock retirement talk after Epsom victory

Frankie Dettori, the most recognisable face in horseracing, has dismissed growing speculation he was about to shock the sport by announcing the end of his glittering career.

Dettori, a multiple-Classic winning rider who was slingshotted to stardom by partnering all seven winners on a card at Ascot in 1996, struck on Wilamina in the Group 3 Princess Elizabeth Stakes at Epsom on Saturday and then took the opportunity to deny a rumour that had mushroomed throughout the morning and early afternoon.

Frankie Dettori stats and big-race wins

"No, no I'm not retiring – another five years," he said. "I'm not retiring, you've got me for another five years.

"There's a rumour saying I'm going to retire after the Derby, but I'm not. I'm definitely not retiring; it will be another at least another five years."

Britain's winningmost Flat jockeys

1. Sir Gordon Richards
2. Pat Eddery
3. Lester Piggott
4. Willie Carson
5. FRANKIE DETTORI
6. Doug Smith
7. Joe Mercer
8. Fred Archer
9. Edward Hide
10. George Fordham

Dettori last month became the fifth winningmost jockey in the history of British Flat racing when overtaking Doug Smith to join an illustrious list that is headed by Sir Gordon Richards, followed by Pat Eddery, Lester Piggott, Willie Carson and the 47-year-old Milan native.