Could Joao Moreira ride in Australia for Godolphin?
CHAMPION Jockey Joao Moreira has denied rumours of being offered to ride for Godolphin in Australia, but he is open to the idea.
James Doyle has been set to replace James McDonald, who is currently being investigated for betting on Astern in December 2015, but Doyle is booked for only sixth months.
Moreira’s name has been put in that hat as a possible replacement, but the Brazilian states that he hasn’t been asked.
“There is a rumour going around that I have been offered the job at Godolphin, and it simply isn’t true, I haven’t had a phone call,” Moreira said.
“Look, if they do call one day, I will listen, but there is a lot to consider and I would need to speak to my family first.
“I am happy to be in Hong Kong, and my plan for the time being is to stay here.
“I am not looking to change, and I have no reason to change and move anywhere else, given the success I am having at the moment.”
As for James Doyle, British racing expert Matt Chapman has told advised punters they “can trust and rely” on Doyle as he starts his Australian sojourn at Canterbury on Wednesday.
“James was once out in the wilderness but always had talent and just needed to get a chance,” Chapman said.
“He got that with Roger Charlton and then Khalid Abdullah and Godolphin. He’s intelligent and will talk well to the press and in stewards’ inquiries. He is strong in a finish and a good judge of pace.
“I see (James) McDonald as one of the best in the world but Aussie punters won’t see much difference with Doyle. They can trust and rely on him.”
Doyle is looking forward to the challenge of riding in the competitive Australian market.
“I have really enjoyed my visits to Melbourne and Sydney to ride for Godolphin in feature races like the Golden Slipper and Cox Plate over the past two seasons,” Doyle said.
“This is a great opportunity to spend more time in Australia and I am looking forward to the challenge.”
Doyle rides Miami Dade ($6.50 at CrownBet.com.au) in Race 7 at Canterbury, his only ride for the day.