'Under the weather' Frankie Dettori in isolation after positive Covid test

Frankie Dettori, who had been due to ride classy miler Real World at Meydan on Friday, will miss the mount after testing positive for Covid.

Dettori, who said he had been vaccinated, revealed the news on Twitter on Thursday, posting a video from the hotel room where he will now isolate.

"Morning everyone," the 51-year-old said. "Just to inform you that I won't be riding this weekend as I've tested positive for Covid.

"I'm restricted in my room for a few days and still feel a little under the weather, but I've had my vaccine and should survive. Take care and I'll keep you posted, but I'm not going to do much anyway. Ciao."

The sport's most famous face, Dettori has been in action at the last two Meydan meetings – the opening fixtures of the Dubai World Cup Carnival – and was booked for four rides on Friday's card.

They included Real World, a remarkable improver for the jockey's old Godolphin ally Saeed bin Suroor last year.

The five-year-old won the Royal Hunt Cup at Royal Ascot before claiming Listed and Group 3 and 2 successes.

Zabeel Mile card

He will now have Danny Tudhope aboard for the Group 2 Zabeel Mile (5.30), which is sponsored by Emaar Beachfront.

"Real World really improved in Europe last year, winning all four of his starts including the Group 2 Prix Daniel Wildenstein on his latest appearance," said Bin Suroor, whose stable star is 1-2 to triumph.

"A mile looks a nice starting point for his campaign and he has been working well, although we expect him to improve for his first run of the year."

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