Former jockey Frankie Dettori’s bankruptcy will continue for another year as a judge extended the bankruptcy order, ruling that it should not be automatically discharged. The decision came after a special hearing where the trustees of Dettori’s bankruptcy requested the extension to ensure he remains bound by the terms of the bankruptcy.
Bankruptcy orders typically expire after a year in England and Wales but can be prolonged by a judge, requiring the bankrupt individual to cooperate and potentially face legal consequences for non-compliance. Despite the hearing, Dettori was absent and had no legal representation.
Dettori, who recently retired from racing, filed for bankruptcy in March 2025 while resolving tax issues in the UK following a dispute with HMRC. The 55-year-old faced financial challenges after engaging tax advisors to manage his and his family’s finances, leading to the bankruptcy filing.
In a recent statement, liquidators expressed doubts about Dettori’s ability to settle his substantial tax debt, totaling £765,542 to HMRC and £6,391 to a car leasing company, with additional fees raising the debt to nearly £900,000.
During the court session, Stefan Ramel, representing the trustees, highlighted Dettori’s non-compliance in providing essential asset information, such as possible overseas property ownership. Consequently, Chief Insolvency and Companies Court Judge Nicholas Briggs extended the bankruptcy order until March 16, 2027, citing Dettori’s persistent failure to cooperate.
Judge Briggs warned of potential criminal penalties for continued non-cooperation, emphasizing the need for thorough investigation into Dettori’s financial affairs, including undisclosed properties in France and Italy, a valuable watch, a wine collection worth approximately £70,000, and investments valued at around £365,000.
Despite opportunities to present his case or seek legal counsel, Dettori did not attend court sessions. The judge noted Dettori’s prior legal disputes over tax matters and highlighted his successful racing career, which included winning multiple British Classics and serving as a British champion.
The bankruptcy extension underscores ongoing challenges for Dettori, who has transitioned to an ambassadorial role for the Amo Racing team following his retirement from professional racing.