CLASSIC-winning jockey David Egan has been announced as Amo Racing’s new retained rider, filling the boots of Kevin Stott, who was relieved of his duties a day after drawing a blank at the Irish Champions Festival in September.

Egan, originally from Co Kildare but based in Britain, has enjoyed considerable big-race success as stable jockey to Roger Varian, trainer of Amo’s leading light King Of Steel. He has now been contracted to don the prominent purple and white silks for the next two years.

The 24-year-old is Amo’s third retained rider since Rossa Ryan assumed the role in August 2020.

In a statement released yesterday, Amo boss Kia Joorabchian said: “I am very pleased to announce David as our first jockey. We have had a brilliant ongoing relationship over the years and used David consistently on our horses, going back to Mojo Star’s brilliant second in the 2021 Derby.

“We now feel it’s the perfect time to consolidate our team and having David on board will be a valuable addition. David is a talented, ambitious jockey with experience at the top of the sport, having won races of the highest calibre all over the world, and growing up as Roger Varian’s stable jockey has given him invaluable experience and maturity.

“Aware of the size of our organisation, we must implement systems to ensure longevity and I have tremendous confidence in this decision. Having David on board for the next two years will help us develop long-term stability as a team. I would also like to thank Roger Varian for his tremendous support, confidence and blessing in this decision.”