INJURY NOT THE END: Ryan Moore’s ankle injury after a busy recent racing schedule still puts him through the paces in the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby (Group 1) – trainer Aidan O’Brien calls it “beautiful madness”

When most riders would be sidelined by an ankle injury, Ryan Moore only tightens his grip on the reins. In a remarkable display of grit and loyalty to the sport, Moore has confirmed he will mount the saddle once again in the highly anticipated Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby (Group 1) at the Curragh, despite sustaining a notable ankle injury during a demanding run of fixtures. Scheduled for Sunday, June 29th, the Irish Derby marks a pivotal moment not just in Moore’s season, but possibly in his storied career.

Over the past two weeks, Moore has taken on an exceptionally packed calendar, including rides across England and Ireland, culminating in a grueling five-race shift at Newmarket just days before his scheduled appearance at the Curragh. During one of his final mounts on Friday evening, Moore twisted his ankle in a minor incident dismounting from a fractious colt in the paddock. While the injury wasn’t publicly disclosed at the time, murmurs among the jockey room hinted that Moore was battling significant discomfort.

Yet, according to trainer Aidan O’Brien, Moore never once entertained the idea of withdrawing. “He sent me a message saying he was still on. I couldn’t believe it. I told him, ‘Ryan, you’ve got nothing to prove,’ but he just smiled and said, ‘One Derby ride is worth a hundred rests.’ That’s Ryan. It’s madness—but beautiful madness,” O’Brien shared with a grin after Saturday morning gallops.

Moore is set to ride Lambourn, one of O’Brien’s strongest prospects this season, and a colt that has been groomed precisely for this day. The duo has trained extensively together, with Moore playing an instrumental role in the horse’s development through the spring. Their chemistry is undeniable, and many insiders suggest it could give them the edge in a field stacked with international competition.

This isn’t the first time Moore has ridden through pain. Throughout his career, he’s maintained a reputation for stoic endurance, often pushing through minor injuries to uphold commitments. However, the stakes on Sunday are higher than ever. Not only is the Irish Derby one of Europe’s most prestigious flat races, but it’s also crucial for Lambourn’s future as a potential stud, and for O’Brien’s ambitions to claim a record-extending win in the event.

Fans have responded with overwhelming support. Social media has been flooded with praise, admiration, and even concern. Hashtags like #MooreThanPain and #DerbyThroughFire have begun to trend in racing circles. One fan wrote on Twitter, “Moore’s ankle is hurting, but he’s still standing tall for racing. That’s a champion, full stop.”

Medical professionals have weighed in cautiously, warning that while riding with an ankle injury is technically possible, it carries risks—especially in the explosive context of a Group 1 race. However, those close to Moore say he’s taking all necessary precautions, including extensive physio and a reinforced riding boot.

As race time approaches, all eyes will be on the Curragh—not just to see if Lambourn lives up to his promise, but to witness Moore’s unwavering determination on full display. Regardless of the outcome, his choice to ride through adversity adds another layer to a legacy already marked by courage, consistency, and class.

In a sport where physical endurance meets psychological resilience, Ryan Moore continues to redefine the limits. The Irish Derby may be a test of speed and stamina for the horses—but for Moore, it’s proof that champions don’t just race; they rise.