Former jockey Frankie Dettori’s bankruptcy will persist for another year as a judge has decided not to automatically discharge it. During a specialized hearing, the trustees of Dettori’s bankruptcy requested an extension of the order for an additional year.
Under English and Welsh law, bankruptcy orders typically expire after a year but can be prolonged by a judge, keeping the individual bound by its conditions and liable to face legal consequences for non-cooperation. Despite the hearing, Dettori was neither present nor represented.
Dettori, who recently retired from racing, filed for bankruptcy in March 2025 while addressing tax issues in the United Kingdom after a dispute with HMRC. The 55-year-old jockey encountered challenges after engaging specialized tax advisors to manage his and his family’s finances, leading to his bankruptcy declaration.
Earlier this year, liquidators stated that Dettori was unlikely to settle his substantial tax debt, amounting to £765,542 owed to HMRC and £6,391 to a car leasing company, with additional fees raising the total debt to nearly £900,000.
During the court session in London, Stefan Ramel, representing the trustees, highlighted Dettori’s non-compliance with asset disclosures, particularly regarding overseas properties. Chief Insolvency and Companies Court Judge Nicholas Briggs ruled to extend the bankruptcy order until March 16, 2027, citing Dettori’s persistent failure to provide requested information.
Judge Briggs emphasized that ongoing lack of cooperation could result in criminal penalties, indicating potential legal consequences for Dettori. The trustees discovered undisclosed properties in France and Italy, along with assets like a Piaget watch, a £70,000 wine collection, and investments valued at around £365,000.
Despite the opportunity to present his case or seek legal representation, Dettori did not attend court proceedings. Following his retirement in 2023 and subsequent return to racing before his final race in February, Dettori transitioned into an ambassadorial role for the Amo Racing team.
Dettori’s history includes past legal disputes over tax matters, with a failed attempt in 2024 to maintain anonymity in tax tribunal proceedings. Various legal challenges and appeals regarding his tax deductions have unfolded over the years, with HMRC and media organizations contesting anonymity decisions.