Two female apprentices confirmed for upcoming season in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has taken another step forward in its stance on women in racing following the confirmation of two female jockeys as apprentices for the upcoming season.

A team of seven international jockeys, including Nicola Currie, became the first women to race in the country during the Jockeys' Challenge in February, the day before the $20 million Saudi Cup.

The first race of the points-based competition, which also featured male riders including Frankie Dettori and will take place again next year, was won by New Zealand's champion jockey Lisa Allpress.

The presence of female apprentices in Saudi Arabia, as well as a small number of domestically based female trainers, is a notable development for a country often criticised over its record on women's rights.

Prince Bandar bin Khalid al Faisal, chairman of the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia (JCSA), said: "The Jockeys' Challenge was a big hit in Saudi Arabia. To have the first race of the jockeys' championship won by a female jockey was very special to us.

Sibylle Vogt becomes the second female jockey to win a race in Saudi ArabiaCredit: Edward Whitaker

"I'm happy to report we've had three or four female trainers who have taken their licences, and for the first time ever we have two lady jockeys who are now apprentices and working with trainers.

"For all the ladies who were here last year, they really need to feel proud as they've inspired generations and we can see the results within the first year.

"I hope in the not too distant future we can see these ladies develop into professional jockeys who can compete at a regional level as well as a national level."

The renewal of the Jockeys' Challenge for 2021 comes after the JCSA confirmed prize-money for next year's two-day Saudi Cup meeting would be increased to $30.5 million.

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