New Zealander James McDonald has cemented his place among the world’s elite jockeys securing his second Longines World’s Best Jockey title.

Over the recent four-day carnival at Flemington, McDonald delivered a breathtaking 11 wins, eclipsing his own previous record of 10 victories set in 2021. His haul included an impressive four Group 1 wins:

• Atishu in the TAB Empire Rose Stakes
• Switzerland in the Coolmore Stud Stakes
• Sunshine In Paris in the Darley Champions Sprint
• Via Sistina in the TAB Champions Stakes

Additionally, he steered Hinged to glory in the Group 2 Matriarch Stakes and wrapped up the week with a win on Pisanello in the final race. However neither were in the top 100 races needed for the World's Best title. 

Reflecting on his landmark achievements, McDonald said:

“It means a lot. It should have been 15, as I butchered four. It’s a privilege and an honor to ride here this week. The atmosphere, the color, the vibe—everything about it is special. It’s one of the best in racing.”

His exploits earned him the Ron Hutchinson Award for leading rider of Cup Week for the fourth consecutive year, further solidifying his dominance at the Carnival.

Longines World’s Best Jockey Title

McDonald’s stellar performance also propelled him to the top of the 2024 Longines World’s Best Jockey rankings. He accrued 160 points from four Group 1 victories and a third-place finish aboard Fangirl in the Champions Mile, narrowly edging out Ryan Moore, who finished with 150 points.

Moore, a five-time winner of the title, had a final chance to overtake McDonald with a win in the Japan Cup aboard Auguste Rodin. However, Japanese superstar Do Deuce, ridden by Yutaka Take, claimed the race, ensuring McDonald’s triumph.

Acknowledging the honor, McDonald humbly credited his success to the teams around him:

“I ride for some brilliant trainers, I get on the best horses, and I’m lucky to be able to drive them. I steer them around a white rail and hope for the best—they do the rest.”

This marks McDonald’s second World’s Best Jockey title, having previously won in 2022. His consistency and ability to excel on the global stage underscore his status as one of racing’s true greats.

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