Gosdens demote Shoemark, adopt best available rider policy

Kieran Shoemark has been demoted from his role as the number one jockey for John and Thady Gosden's stable following criticism of his ride on Field Of Gold in the 2000 Guineas, where the horse finished second after a late push. The Gosdens have decided to switch to a 'best available rider' policy for the rest of the season, citing the need for the best chance of success, though Shoemark will remain part of the Newmarket operation and is expected to continue riding for the stable at upcoming events, including at Chester. Thady Gosden emphasized that several retained riders are already associated with the yard and that the policy allows flexibility in jockey selection. Shoemark acknowledged he may have been overly confident in his Guineas ride, a factor that contributed to the change. Meanwhile, other top jockeys like Colin Keane and Christophe Soumillon have been booked for major upcoming races, indicating the stable's intention to diversify its riding roster. The move comes early in the season, giving both Shoemark and the stable time to adjust.