Kieran Shoemark’s tenure as the top jockey for the renowned John and Thady Gosden stable came to an abrupt end following his performance on Field Of Gold in the 2000 Guineas. The 29-year-old jockey faced severe backlash for his ride, allowing Ruling Court to surge ahead and claim victory in the prestigious Newmarket Classic.
Shoemark, who had taken over as the preferred rider for the Gosden team after Frankie Dettori’s departure in early 2024, was relieved of his position after the disappointing outcome at Newmarket. The criticism stemmed from his handling of the 7/4 favorite, Field Of Gold, who fell short in the race, trailing behind the winner trained by Charlie Appleby.
Reflecting on his performance, Shoemark acknowledged being overly confident while riding the Juddmonte-owned horse. John Gosden remarked on the race dynamics, noting that they were positioned too far back, ultimately running out of track to make a significant impact on the outcome.

Following the race, co-trainer Thady Gosden revealed that a strategic decision had been made to prioritize the best available rider for the stable’s future races. While expressing confidence in Shoemark’s abilities, the Gosden team opted for a more flexible approach to rider selection to enhance their competitive edge in the upcoming events.
Despite the change in Shoemark’s status as the primary rider, the Gosden stable plans to continue utilizing his services in the future. However, for the upcoming French Classics at ParisLongchamp, the team has secured Colin Keane and Christophe Soumillon to pilot their horses, indicating a shift in their approach to rider assignments.

Thady Gosden emphasized the importance of adapting to the evolving demands of the racing season, highlighting the significance of having a diverse pool of talented riders to optimize performance on the track. The decision to explore different rider options reflects the Gosden team’s commitment to staying competitive and maximizing their chances of success in the fiercely competitive world of horse racing.

As the racing season progresses, the Gosden stable’s strategic approach to rider selection underscores the ever-changing dynamics of the sport. With a focus on leveraging the skills of various riders for specific races, the team aims to maintain a winning edge and uphold their reputation as a powerhouse in the horse racing industry.
While Shoemark’s role within the Gosden stable may have shifted, the decision to diversify rider choices signals a forward-looking strategy aimed at achieving continued success on the racetrack. As the team navigates the challenges and opportunities of the racing circuit, their adaptability and commitment to excellence remain key drivers of their ongoing pursuit of victory.
🔗 Reddit Discussions
- Guy jumps onto the saddle of a horse running away
- It took me way too long to realize the horse hearts are saddles
- My horse used to be completely black but now the parts where the saddle is placed are white. this is my second time playing and nothing like this happened the first time. What causes this? is it normal?