Multiple champion and dual Grand National-winning jockey Davy Russell has confirmed in a statement on Wednesday that he will return to race-riding this weekend to fill the void at Gordon Elliott's stable due to the injury of Jack Kennedy.
Kennedy broke his leg for a fifth time in a fall from Top Bandit at Naas on Sunday, leaving Elliott without an established number one with the major spring festivals just over the horizon.
That led to growing speculation that Russell, who called time on his glittering career when bowing out on Elliott's Liberty Dance at Thurles less than a month ago, would make a shock return.
In a statement released late on Wednesday evening, the 43-year-old confirmed that he would return to the saddle to help his old ally and friend Elliott while Kennedy is on the sidelines.
He said, “After meeting with Gordon today, I have decided to come out of retirement and ride for the short period while Jack is on the sidelines.”
The legendary jockey, most famous for his association with dual Grand National hero Tiger Roll (Ire) (Authorized {Ire}), added, “It's only been a matter of weeks since I retired, and I actually rode more out this morning than I have in many years.
“We are a close team in Cullentra and after what happened last weekend, I want to help the team through a difficult few weeks. The plan is to resume riding in Fairyhouse on Saturday and Punchestown on Sunday.”
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