Ireland is known for its horse racing, which is deeply rooted in its culture. Horse racing in Ireland has a long history dating back centuries and a strong tradition of breeding world-class thoroughbreds. Many reputed racing events like the Irish Grand National and the Galway Races attract huge crowds and tourists. Ireland is home to some of the world’s top trainers and jockeys, making it a dominant force in international racing.
Ireland has produced some of the most iconic jockeys in the world of horse racing. From dominating Cheltenham to conquering the Grand National, these riders have become legends, inspiring fans and future generations alike. In this article, we’ll discuss the top 10 Irish jockeys whose careers have defined excellence in horse racing. Additionally, with the rise of online gambling in Ireland, racing fans have found it easier than ever to place bets on their favourite jockeys and horses. In fact, many bettors turn to oddspodden.com the best online betting options for horse racing. Beyond the tracks, horse racing continues to shape Ireland’s economy, tourism, and national identity, with modern digital advancements to ensure its ongoing success.
1. Ruby Walsh
Ruby Walsh isn’t just a jockey—he’s a phenomenon. Born in 1979 in Kill, County Kildare, Ruby Walsh is arguably the greatest Irish jockey of all time. He has a very strong record at Cheltenham, where he has won multiple Champion Hurdles, Gold Cups and Queen Mother Champion Chases. Ruby has a staggering 59 Cheltenham Festival wins as of 2025. His two Grand National victories (2000 on Papillon and in 2005 on Hedgehunter) and over £80+ million in prize money cement his legacy as Ireland’s most decorated jockey.
Ruby Walsh retired in 2019 after a career spanning 24-years, following a victory on Kemboy in the Punchestown Gold Cup. His sister Katie Walsh is also one of the top female jockeys. Ruby Walsh’s dominance in major racing events made him a favourite among sports bettors, especially at the Cheltenham Festival, where he consistently delivered winning performances. His remarkable record led to many punters backing him heavily and influencing betting odds. Walsh remains a key figure in horse racing analysis even after his retirement, providing expert insights that bettors rely on when placing wagers.
2. AP McCoy
No list of Irish jockeys is complete without mentioning Sir Anthony Peter McCoy. Tony McCoy dominated National Hunt racing with a 4,358 career wins – a record that still stands. His work ethic made him one of the most respected jockeys in history. McCoy was awarded the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award in 2010 and thus became the first jockey to win this award after receiving 41.98% of the public vote. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest sportsmen of all time. He was Champion Jockey a record 20 consecutive times from 1995/96 until his retirement in 2015.
In December 1999 he reached his 1000th win and in November 2013 his 4000th. McCoy was knighted in the 2016 for his services to horse racing. AP McCoy secured 31 wins at the Cheltenham Festival, placing him third on the all-time list behind Ruby Walsh and Barry Geraghty. Tony McCoy’s dominance in National Hunt racing made him a favourite among sports bettors, with many consistently backing him in major events like the Cheltenham Festival and the Grand National.
3. Mick Kinane
Born in 1959 in Killenaule, County Tipperary, Mick Kinane excelled in both flat and jumps racing. He spent over 30 years riding at the highest level in flat racing. His Epsom Derby and Arc wins along with a Breeders’ Cup triumph showcased his adaptability. Kinane won the Epsom Derby three times.
Mick has been Irish Champion Jockey on 13 different occasions. He had major wins in Ireland, UK, Canada, France, Hong Kong, India, Italy and USA. Kinane had notable partnerships with trainer Aidan O’Brien and rode the exceptional horse Galileo. Kinane has over 2700 wins in his career and earnings exceeding £50 million.
4. Davy Russell
Davy Russell’s calm under pressure and strategic brilliance earned him two Grand National victories, both aboard Tiger Roll in 2018 and 2019. He also secured 25 wins at the Cheltenham Festival. Born in Youghal, County Cork in 1979, Davy is known for his partnership with trainer Gordon Elliott, Russell’s versatility in National Hunt racing made him a fan favourite.
He earned the Irish Jump Racing Champion Jockey title three times i.e. in the 2011/12, 2012/13, and 2017/18 seasons. Russell concluded his career as the eighth-most successful jump jockey, with over 1,500 wins in Britain and Ireland. Davy had 1,700+ wins in his professional career.
5. Tommy Carmody
Tommy Carmody is an Irish jockey whose had success in major handicaps and National Hunt racing. Tommy Carmody’s 1985 Grand National win on Last Suspect and tactical intelligence in handicaps secured his place among Ireland’s greats. He achieved significant victories, including two King George VI Chase titles on Silver Buck and one on Gay Spartan. Carmody was honoured as the Irish jump racing Champion Jockey in the 1984–85 and 1987–88 seasons.
Though his career was shorter, Carmody’s impact on the racing world remains significant. Known for his bold and strategic riding style, Carmody’s contributions to major handicaps and National Hunt racing have solidified his legacy in the horse racing community. His remarkable performances in high-stakes races made him a favourite among bettors, with many wagering on his rides in top-tier events. Even today, racing enthusiasts analyse his past victories to inform their betting strategies on major National Hunt races.
6. Barry Geraghty
Barry Geraghty is one of the most successful Irish jockeys of the modern era. Born in 1979 in Pelletstown, County Meath, Barry had major wins at Cheltenham, Aintree, and many other prestigious events.
Barry Geraghty is the second most successful jockey at the Cheltenham festival behind Ruby Walsh with 43 wins. Barry won the Grand National in 2003 riding Monty’s Pass. He is known for his tactical ability and skill in navigating tricky racecourses. Barry retired in 2020.
7. Frankie Dettori
Though Italian-born, Frankie Dettori’s Irish connections shine through his Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe wins and partnerships with Irish stables. Dettori is renowned for his charismatic personality and “flying dismount” celebrations which made him a global star. He has won major races for Irish trainers and owners and has been a prominent figure in the sport. Frankie had 3000+ career wins. Dettori’s charisma have made him a household name, and his success in races like the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes highlights his skill on the track.
8. Adrian Maguire
Adrian Maguire was renowned for his fearless and aggressive riding style, which made him a standout in National Hunt racing during the 1990s. Maguire won the 1992 Cheltenham Gold Cup riding Cool Ground. Maguire’s bold approach to racing earned him respect, and his victories in races like the Cheltenham Gold Cup remain some of the most celebrated moments in Irish racing history.
9. Declan McDonogh
Declan McDonogh’s reliability and consistency in competitive races and over 1200 career wins make him a go-to jockey for top trainers. Declan McDonogh is known for his ability to handle top-class horses and ride them to victory in competitive races. His steady career reflects the grit of Irish racing.
His notable wins include the Phoenix Stakes with La Collina (2011), Pretty Polly Stakes with Polaire (1999) and Rebelline (2001), Tattersalls Gold Cup with Rebelline (2002), Vincent O’Brien National Stakes with Kingsfort (2009) and Thunder Moon (2020), and the Prix de l’Abbaye de Longchamp with Maarek (2013). McDonogh was honored as the Irish flat racing Champion Jockey in the 2006 season.
10. Kevin Manning
Manning primarily focused on flat racing and enjoyed a remarkable career spanning nearly four decades. Manning’s career includes significant victories, such as the 2008 Epsom Derby on New Approach and the 2013 Irish Derby on Trading Leather. He retired in October 2022 after a victorious ride on Vocal Studies for trainer Jim Bolger at Galway. A quiet force in Irish racing, Manning’s longevity is unmatched.
Final Thoughts
Irish jockeys have long dominated the world of horse racing, showcasing unmatched skill and determination on the track. As horse racing remains a cornerstone of Irish sports culture, the rise of gambling in Ireland has further fuelled the excitement surrounding major races. Horse racing is a major contributor to the Irish economy, generating hundreds of millions of euros annually through race events, breeding, and betting.
The betting industry alone plays a significant role, with horse racing wagers accounting for a substantial portion of Ireland’s gambling revenue. Horse betting and online casinos has evolved significantly, with innovations in online gambling making it easier than ever for fans to place wagers on their favourite riders and races. Advanced betting platforms now offer live streaming, real-time odds, and mobile-friendly options, enhancing the overall experience for punters. With horse racing and betting deeply intertwined, Ireland’s legacy in the sport continues to thrive, ensuring that both jockeys and bettors remain at the heart of this thrilling industry.
These jockeys have not only excelled on the racetrack but have become legends in the sport, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire future generations. Whether it’s through countless victories at Cheltenham, the Grand National, or other prestigious races, their achievements have solidified their place in the horse racing history. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a casual fan, Ireland’s racing legends remind us why this sport is called the “Sport of Kings.”