In an unprecedented gesture that shakes the world of horse racing, the famous Belgian jockey Christophe Soumillon rejected a staggering offer of5 million eurosFrom an emir of the Royal Family of Saudi Arabia. The offer focused on an exclusive contract to run under the colors of the kingdom in the next season of the Saudi Cup. But it is not the refusal in itself that shocks observers, this is what followed.
At a tense press conference held in Chantilly, Soumillon spoke, visibly moved, to explain:
“I grew up with the idea that riding a horse is a matter of passion, no transactions. What I see today are no races, butDisguised giant auction. We sell everything, until our dignity. »»
But the most explosive moment has come when he hascited namely a “living legend” of the world of racing, that he accuses of betraying the essence of sport:
“These kind of people – garbage, yes, I weigh my words – that have transformed the racetracks intoBlack money markets. They no longer run for glory, but for the check. »»
Even if Soumillon has not publicly revealed the exact name of the person targeted,Speculations ignite social networks. Some points to a former mentor who has become an influential agent, others suspect a longtime rival, now close to the Gulf stables.
🌪️ a shock wave in the middle
The public’s reaction was immediate. Fans have praised Soumillon’s courage, while others, more skeptical, see it as a media maneuver. On X (formerly Twitter), the hashtag#SoumillonLeaksquickly became trendy, followed closely by#Notforts.
Several associations of jockeys and former champions, such asLanfranco Dettori, expressed their discreet support to Soumillon.
“He says out loud what many think down. Sport loses its soul when money becomes the only engine, “he said.
🏇 And now?
Christophe Soumillon assured that he would continue to run “where the Horse Spirit prevails on the Stock Exchange”. It is expected this weekend in Longchamp, whereSupporting signs and “not for sale” t-shirtsshould appear.
This scandal reveals aDeep fracture in the world of high level races, between tradition and commercial drifts. One thing is certain:Soumillon’s rantcould mark a historic turning point in the ethics of this millennial sport.
