Pierre-Charles Boudot is back in the saddle. The three-time French champion jockey, whose career stalled in 2021 amid legal proceedings, rode competitively for the first time in nearly three years on Friday in Qatar. His return wasn’t part of a grand comeback tour—it came through a last-minute, one-night licence issued by local authorities. He finished fourth in his first race aboard Al Jori, riding overweight by 7kg, before securing victory on Kerindia later in the card.

Boudot, once one of the most sought-after jockeys in Europe, hasn’t raced since May 2021, when he was indicted on rape charges following allegations from a work-rider. While not officially banned in France, his licence was suspended under rules designed to protect the sport’s integrity, and later withdrawn entirely by the Ministry of the Interior. Since then, he has kept a low profile, recently working in Qatar as a track rider for Al Shaqab.

His sudden return to race-riding came under unusual circumstances. After concerns over the safety of the turf track’s home bend, several jockeys refused to compete, leading to a two-hour delay. Boudot was called in to fill the gaps. It remains unclear whether this marks a turning point in his career or just a brief exception. For now, he remains in limbo—riding, but without a permanent licence.

 Image Hkjc 2018