Soumillon returns to winner’s enclosure at Chantilly
Christophe Soumillon was successful on his first ride back in France since the end of his 60-day suspension for elbowing Rossa Ryan off his mount in September.
Riding Black Milord Tavel for trainer Eric Lecoiffier in the Prix de la Mare Madame over two miles at Chantilly on Saturday, the Belgian wasted no time in opening his account.
Unsuccessful in South Africa last weekend and on one ride in Meydan on Friday, Soumillon jetted back to his adopted homeland and struck at the first attempt.
The jockey missed lucrative spells in Hong Kong and Japan, as well as Ascot’s Champions Day and the Breeders’ Cup and had his retainer with leading owner the Aga Khan terminated as a result of the controversial incident at Saint-Cloud.
Having linked up with agent Herve Naggar, he will be hoping for a fresh start.
