Former champion jockey Paul Hanagan fights back tears announcing shock retirement on live TV
Former Jockey Champion Paul Hanagan fought back tears as he announced his shock retirement live on ITV Racing.
The 42-year-old jockey said his final ride will be in York on Friday, the third day of the Ebor Summer Festival.
Hanagan, who was Jockey Champion in 2010 and 2011, said he never felt like this after breaking his back in 2021.
Hanagan was clearly emotional and in a shaky voice to ITV Racing’s Ed Chamberlin: “After almost three decades, I’m drawing the curtain.”
“As you can imagine, it’s quite emotional.
“It’s so difficult. I think any professional athlete will tell you how difficult the decisions are.”
“A few things played a role in the decision.
“Two years ago I had a pretty bad fall and I was never quite the same.”
“I broke my back in three places. It’s not so much about riding as it is about getting back to the level of fitness I need.”
“Not only that…when you’re at the top of the game, this was my first season as a freelancer and it was really quite difficult.”
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“I’m not upset, I’m more excited about the career I’ve had.”
“Anyone who thinks they’re going through a difficult time can make it, you have to work hard if you really want it.”
“I started with nothing just a lot of love and support, I’m very honored.”
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