Richie Mullen will return to the Dubai racing circuit for the 2026–27 season with his determination undimmed after a career-threatening injury and a memorable comeback that included a Group 1 victory. At 50, the experienced jockey remains as motivated as ever as he prepares for another winter in the saddle, with the Dubai Racing Carnival beginning on November 6.
Mullen first rode a winner in Dubai in 2000 and has since built a career spanning 28 seasons. His resilience was tested severely by two serious falls in consecutive years, most notably an accident in Abu Dhabi in 2025 that left him with a fractured wrist, a dislocated elbow, ruptured ligaments, a fractured ankle and a broken thumb.
The injuries required several operations and forced him to confront difficult questions about his future in racing. Yet, with the support of his family and a determination to return, Mullen fought his way back to the racecourse.
“It certainly gets you thinking when you’re sitting in a hospital bed after several operations. ‘Is it worth carrying on?’ But I’ve got an amazing family who were by my side throughout. And hearing people say I should retire gave me a burning desire to get back and prove I could still do it.”
Richie Mullen’s Comeback Brings a Group 1 Reward
The comeback proved more than a personal triumph. Mullen rode 28 winners last season, with the highlight coming aboard Imperial Emperor in the Maktoum Challenge, securing a Group 1 success after narrowly missing out in the same race during the previous two years.
On both occasions, he had finished second for trainer Bhupat Seemar, making the eventual victory particularly satisfying. For a jockey approaching the later stages of a long career, the achievement carried added significance.
“At the latter part of your career, you’re thinking those Group 1s are a thing of the past.”
Instead, Imperial Emperor’s victory provided a powerful reminder that Mullen remains capable of competing at the highest level. His return to form also underlined the determination that has kept him in the sport through injury, rehabilitation and uncertainty.
A New Season at Marmoom Stable
Mullen will again be based at Charlie Appleby’s Marmoom Stable this winter. Alongside that association, he will continue riding freelance in the afternoons and work with Eric Legrix on the Arabian racing circuit.
Now the oldest jockey in the weighing room, Mullen continues to draw motivation from the length of his career and the opportunities Dubai has provided. His connection with the emirate extends well beyond the racecourse, having raised his family there while competing across several international racing jurisdictions.
“28 seasons is a number I’m extremely proud of. To be part of a magnificent racing jurisdiction and to have raised my family in such a wonderful country. I’ve ridden all around the world but I don’t think you’ll find a better track or facilities anywhere than at Meydan Racecourse.”
His words reflect a lasting appreciation for the environment in which he has spent much of his professional life. Despite the physical demands of the sport and the setbacks he has endured, the desire to compete remains strong.
As the Dubai Racing Carnival approaches on November 6, Mullen’s return offers another chapter in a career defined by perseverance. After overcoming injuries that might have ended his riding days, he heads into the new season with renewed purpose and the confidence of a jockey who has already proved he can come back.
Welcome back, Richie Mullen.
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