Frankie Dettori swansong reaches Riyadh for the $20m Saudi Cup

The Frankie Dettori farewell tour has arrived in Riyadh where the legendary jockey will be seeking to add another glittering career highlight with victory in the world’s most valuable race, the $20 million Saudi Cup on Saturday.

Dettori is riding last year’s runner-up Country Grammer for American trainer Bob Baffert, and don’t put it past the 52-year-old Italian landing the big prize, which would see him pocket at least $2m if he manages to go one better than 12 months ago.

“Country Grammer is very solid and never runs a bad race. Touch wood he doesn't start now,” said Dettori. “He was second last year, is tough and has travelled before, which is a plus. I would be foolish to say that I am confident but I am very pleased to ride him and he will give his best.”

Dettori, still the world’s most high profile rider, flew into Saudi Arabia after a memorable night last Sunday at Santa Anita in California where he rode a 251-1 four timer. It showed he is riding as well as ever which prompted inevitable questions about retirement plans. For now he is due to finish at the Breeders’ Cup in November.

Asked if he thinks that he will change his mind, Dettori replied: “At the moment, the plan is to stop at the end of the season. I am sure I am going to be asked that question a million times before then!

“But this year is my last. I will be 53 in December and I will finish on the top. It's hard to choose the right moment and my heart wants to carry on but I want to have another life after racing.

“I gave myself a year to do my last farewell. I am in Saudi Arabia because I was asked to be here, I'd usually be in Dubai, and after that I will do the European programme. Royal Ascot should be my last meeting in England and then possibly the