Frankie Dettori has become the latest casualty of the financial problems engulfing Al Shaqab Racing, The Times can disclose, with his substantial six-figure contract with the Qatari conglomerate being halved in value.

It was revealed this month that the operation — run by Sheikh Joaan al-Thani, the brother of the emir of Qatar — owed more than £1 million in unpaid fees to a number of Britain’s leading Flat racing trainers.

Dettori, 47, who is on an annual retainer with Al Shaqab, has had his contract renegotiated after it switched its focus towards France. This has resulted in fewer horses being trained in this country. Peter Burrell, Dettori’s agent, confirmed that the contract has been amended to reflect Al Shaqab’s shift in emphasis.

The Times UK