Four time Champion Jump Jockey Richard Johnson has announced his immediate retirement after 27 years in the saddle.
Johnson rode a total of 3,824 winners, a figure only bettered by his long-term weighing room rival and friend, Sir AP McCoy.
In a statement Johnson said: “After nearly 30 years in the saddle, the time has come for me to retire.
“I have been so extraordinarily lucky to have ridden so many wonderful horses, and for so many incredible trainers and owners. It was particularly important to me to finish on one for Philip and Sarah Hobbs who, like Henry Daly, have supported me for over 20 years. I’ll never be able to articulate what their loyalty has meant to me.”
Breaking News – Four-time champion jockey @dickyjohnson77 announces his retirement with immediate effect. Congratulations on a fantastic career, Dicky 👏 pic.twitter.com/TkFLMNIjRq
— At The Races (@AtTheRaces) April 3, 2021
The outpouring of affection for the man known to many as simply ‘Dicky’ across social media in the immediate aftermath just shows the high regard in which Johnson was viewed by both his colleagues and racing fans alike.
Tributes Flow From Fellow Riders
Sometimes those who challenge us the most teach us the best. You did both to me for over 20 years I will be forever grateful to you thanks buddy. When you go home tonight look in the mirror you’ll see what a champion looks like. Enjoy your retirement @dickyjohnson77
— AP McCoy (@AP_McCoy) April 3, 2021
Richard Johnson has been my hero from when he spoke to on my first ever ride, can’t find the words to describe what he means to me from both a personal and professional point of view @dickyjohnson77
— Aidan Coleman (@AidanColeman) April 3, 2021
Cant believe the news @dickyjohnson77 not just a legend but a hero to so many . Not just one of the best in the world but also one of the nicest . Happy retirement dickler #hero
— Sam Twiston-Davies (@samtwiston) April 3, 2021
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