The Aga Khan Studs have announced that Christophe Soumillon will not be retained to ride the Aga Khan owned horses in France after the 2009 flat racing season. After 8 years under contract as the first rider in France, it has been decided as human relations have become difficult and after mutual agreement, that his contract will not be renewed for 2010.

This separation has been agreed on amicable terms and Christophe Soumillon will ride out his contract for the rest of the 2009 season, and he could well be retained in the future to ride Aga Khan horses.

The Aga Khan Studs will make public their future riding arrangements when they have been finalised.

Over the last 8 years, the Aga Khan Studs and Christophe Soumillon have enjoyed many successes at the top level including four Group 1 wins with Dalakhani and five Group 1 wins with the unbeaten Zarkava in 2008. The Aga Khan Studs would like to take this opportunity to thank Christophe Soumillon for their successful association since 2002.

Updated on 25/08/2009