Hayley Turner Pregnant – Retires Immediately

Hayley Turner Pregnant – three words that signal the end of an era and the beginning of an exciting new chapter. The trailblazing female jockey has announced her retirement from horse racing and shared the joyful news that she is expecting her first child in October.

Turner a Jockey for 25 Years

After more than two decades in the saddle, Hayley Turner – pregnant and full of gratitude – revealed the emotional decision to step away from the sport following a winning ride at Southwell. Fittingly, Southwell was the same racecourse where she had her very first ride back on March 27, 2000.

In a heartfelt statement, Turner said:

“I have decided to retire from being a jockey following my winner at Southwell, especially as I had my first ride at the racecourse on March 27, 2000. I am very excited to also announce that I am having a baby in October, all being well, which I have been planning for the last two years.”

The news of Hayley Turner being pregnant has sent ripples through the horse racing world. Her accomplishments speak volumes – the first female jockey to win a British Group One outright, landing the 2011 July Cup on Dream Ahead, and the Nunthorpe Stakes on longshot Margot Did just weeks later. She was also the first woman to ride 100 UK Flat winners in a single season, breaking barriers and inspiring countless young riders.

Despite facing challenges, including a temporary retirement and a betting-related suspension in 2017, Turner bounced back with characteristic grit. She became a fan-favourite at events like the Shergar Cup and secured multiple Royal Ascot victories, the most recent being a Listed win at Windsor in 2023.

“I’m looking forward to my next life chapter,” she added, “but will be focusing on the baby in the short term.”

Hayley Turner pregnant, a phrase we never expected to associate with retirement, but it now defines the closing of one legacy and the start of another. Her supporters, including leading trainers and fans across the globe, have shared an outpouring of love and admiration.

Racing columnist Matt Chapman summed it up perfectly:

“A class act. Grade 1 heroine. Go well Turner girl, go well.”

As she prepares for motherhood, Turner leaves behind a legacy etched in the history of horse racing. Her retirement may be immediate, but her impact will be felt for generations to come. We wish her all the best.