Quotes of the week: Michael O'Leary unfazed if his colours dominate big races

John put on a pantomime act. We all know that. He made a living out of it and people liked it, but deep down he was a very private person and he cared about people.
Jenny McCririck on her husband, legendary broadcaster John, after his death on Friday
If I could have all 12 runners in the Cheltenham Gold Cup and all 40 runners in the Grand National, I would. I wouldn’t give a rat’s arse if I got criticism as long as I won it.
Gigginstown supremo Michael O’Leary on his approach to ownership
Listen, when I had 85 rides without a winner I was starting to get a bit itchy and I was thinking to myself, 'Jaysus, this isn't great', but the fire is still in the belly and to get a winner is what it's all about.
In-form 50-year-old rider Niall McCullagh after a golden fortnight in the saddle
He was being devil's advocate to incite debate, and make it lively. In doing so that brings racing to a mainstream audience. He diluted the jargon and turned topics into a 'yes, no' scenario. He spoke the punters' language and brought the betting industry to account and praised it when it needed to be praised.
Tanya Stevenson on her former colleague John McCririck after his sad passing on Friday
It’s been a great day and I couldn’t have asked for better. It means a lot to ride my first treble and I have to thank everyone who has supported me.
Delighted apprentice Sean Davis after riding his first treble at Wolverhampton on Monday
It was John's idea to start the Paddy Power company and he was the driving force behind the whole concept.
David Power pays tribute to his fellow Paddy Power co-founder John Corcoran after his death, aged 90, on Monday
Members can read the latest exclusive interviews, news analysis and comment available from 6pm daily on racingpost.com
Published on inFeatures
Last updated
- 'We must be focused and emotionless in our pursuit of winners' – Steve Palmer answers your questions
- Your best bet for the 2025 Masters – sign up to Racing Post+ to get Steve Palmer's top tips for Augusta
- 'Their engagement is outstanding' - so, what's it like to be part of RaceShare?
- 'There were lots of bad words between us' - inside the most compelling and controversial title race of all time
- 'In the same form I'd back him to win any race he runs in' - our experts find the early value for the 2026 Cheltenham Festival
- 'We must be focused and emotionless in our pursuit of winners' – Steve Palmer answers your questions
- Your best bet for the 2025 Masters – sign up to Racing Post+ to get Steve Palmer's top tips for Augusta
- 'Their engagement is outstanding' - so, what's it like to be part of RaceShare?
- 'There were lots of bad words between us' - inside the most compelling and controversial title race of all time
- 'In the same form I'd back him to win any race he runs in' - our experts find the early value for the 2026 Cheltenham Festival