A new name could soon be a lot more prominent on the David Power Jockeys’ Cup leaderboard with news that Irish-based rider J J Slevin will succeed the now-retired Daryl Jacob as retained jockey to Simon Munir and Isaac Souede.
Following Jacob’s retirement from the saddle at Leopardstown on Sunday, the powerful owners have moved swiftly to secure a replacement, with Slevin to ride runners in their ‘double green’ silks in both Britain and Ireland.
Slevin has enjoyed a lengthy association with Joseph O’Brien, riding a Grade One double at Leopardstown’s Christmas meeting for the handler aboard Solness and Home By The Lee, but he has also had notable success in the Munir and Souede colours, having partnered Irish Grand National winner Intense Raffles last year.
Speaking to Racing TV at Ayr on Thursday – after winning on his first ride since his new official position was announced – Slevin said: “I’m delighted to team up with Simon and Isaac and fill large boots now – they will take plenty of filling so we’ll try our best.”
On his new role, the rider added: “It’s lovely.
“Obviously I’ve been working with [trainer] Stuart [Crawford] for a very long time and Simon and Isaac obviously came on board there and I got to know them through that, so even though it’s a new role it’s just continuing on with the old really and I’m just looking forward to it.”
In a statement posted on X, Munir said: “We are delighted to announce that J J Slevin will be joining Team Double Green with immediate effect. J J’s prime responsibility will be to be our retained jockey in Ireland and England.
“J J has ridden many of our horses in the past, including our Irish Grand National winner Intense Raffles. With Daryl’s retirement, this is a natural progression, having often deputised in the past for Daryl in his absence. Daryl’s continuing role within Team Double Green will ensure a smooth transition.
“We look forward to a long, successful association with J J and welcome him to Team Double Green.”
Munir and Souede also retain Bryony Frost to ride their runners in France.