J J Slevin succeeds Jacob in plum ‘double green’ role

J J Slevin has been appointed as retained rider for owners Simon Munir and Isaac Souede.

Following Daryl Jacob’s retirement from the saddle at Leopardstown on Sunday, the ownership team have moved swiftly to secure a replacement, with Slevin to ride runners in their ‘double green’ silks in both Britain and Ireland, starting at Ayr this afternoon.

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.

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.