John Francome

John Francome MBE is widely regarded as one of the most naturally gifted horsemen to ever grace the saddle, earning the nickname “The Greatest” from his peers.

A seven-time Champion Jockey (1976, 1979, 1981–1985), he retired in 1985 with a then-record 1,138 career winners, a total that underscored his incredible consistency and tactical brilliance. His career was defined by a legendary association with trainer Fred Winter, leading to major triumphs including the Cheltenham Gold Cup on Midnight Court (1978) and the Champion Hurdle on Sea Pigeon (1981).

Perhaps his most famous act of sportsmanship occurred in the 1981/82 season when he stopped riding to allow his injured rival, Peter Scudamore, to share the title.