Atzeni becomes jockey to Qatar Racing in 2015

The appointments of Atzeni, 23, and Murphy, 18, follow Jamie Spencer's decision to retire from race riding at the end of 2014 to take up a full time role on the Qatar Racing management team. The two-year contract given to Qatar Racing's other contracted jockey, Harry Bentley, expires at the end of 2014, however, he is expected to continue riding horses under the banner of Qatar Racing and Pearl Bloodstock.

David Redvers, Racing and Bloodstock Manager to Qatar Racing, said: "With Jamie retiring and Harry concluding his two-year contract, Sheikh Fahad is delighted to have secured the services of Andrea and Oisin for Qatar Racing. He has also asked me to reiterate his gratitude to both Jamie and Harry for all of their hard work, skill and professionalism.

"Whilst Jamie comes into the Qatar Racing management team, Harry will continue to ride for us when the opportunities allow. Harry is a gifted horseman and his results for us and others over the last two seasons have more than repaid Sheikh Fahad's faith that he is destined for the very top. We wish him continued luck and success."

During his two-year contract, Bentley rode stakes winners for Qatar Racing, most recently a Listed win on Valonia last weekend, and was runner-up in both the British and Irish 1000 Guineas on Lightning Thunder, as well as being crowned champion jockey in Qatar.

Oisin Murphy, No.2 for Qatar Racing in 2015

David Redvers added: "Andrea and Oisin have impressed us greatly this season and we are delighted to agree terms with them to take effect from the start of 2015."

Andrea Atzeni said: "I feel very privileged to have been asked to ride as first jockey for Qatar Racing. I am excited at the prospect and look forward to repaying the faith Sheikh Fahad and his brothers have shown in appointing me.

"I would like to thank all the trainers who have supported and helped me in my career, without whom I would not have received this opportunity. In particular, I would like to thank Roger Varian and his wife Hanako for their support. I credit Roger with putting put me on the map, through horses such as Kingston Hill. I am very grateful to Sheikh Mohammed Obaid and Luca Cumani, who have both been terrific to ride for, and to Robert Eddery, who has also been a great supporter."

Qatar Racing currently has around 250 horses in training worldwide, the majority of which are based in Britain, Ireland and France, as well as horses in Germany, Australia and USA.

PICTURES: Laurence Squire