Former professional jockey Frankie Dettori will remain in bankruptcy for an additional year, as a judge has decided not to automatically discharge his bankruptcy. During a specialized hearing, the trustees of Dettori’s bankruptcy requested an extension of the order for another year.
Bankruptcy orders in England and Wales typically end after a year but can be prolonged by a judge, keeping the individual bound by the order’s terms and subject to potential criminal prosecution for non-compliance. Despite not attending the hearing or being represented, Dettori’s bankruptcy will continue due to the trustees’ request.
Dettori, who recently retired from racing, filed for bankruptcy in March 2025 after facing tax challenges from HMRC. The 55-year-old’s financial troubles arose following a dispute over his anonymity in a tax tribunal where he disclosed issues after seeking specialized tax advice for his and his family’s financial matters.
In a recent development, liquidators revealed that Dettori was unlikely to settle his substantial tax debt amounting to £765,542 owed to HMRC and additional debts to a car leasing company, bringing the total close to £900,000 after including fees. Stefan Ramel, representing the trustees, informed the London court that Dettori had not cooperated in providing necessary asset information, including details on potential 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 comply with asset disclosure requests. Briggs noted that ongoing lack of cooperation could result in criminal penalties, emphasizing the importance of uncovering all financial aspects related to the bankruptcy.
The judge highlighted concerns about undisclosed assets, including a Piaget watch, a substantial wine collection valued at approximately £70,000, and investments totaling around £365,000. Dettori had the opportunity to present arguments in court or engage legal representation but failed to do so.
Dettori’s retirement from racing in 2023, subsequent return to the sport, and final race in February have marked his transition to an ambassadorial role for the Amo Racing team. Notably, the jockey has been involved in previous legal disputes concerning his tax affairs, including unsuccessful attempts to maintain anonymity in tribunal proceedings.
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