Few figures in horse racing are as influential as Rich Ricci. The former investment banker turned racing mogul has built a legacy both in the financial world and on the racecourse. As Cheltenham Festival 2025 unfolds, all eyes are on Ricci’s elite stable and his latest moves in the sport.
From Wall Street to the Racecourse
Born in Nebraska, USA, in 1964, Ricci’s wealth wasn’t built on racing alone. After earning a finance degree from Creighton University, he launched a banking career at Bank of Boston before joining Barclays Investment Banking, where he rose to prominence. By 2011, he had reportedly earned £44 million in bonuses, solidifying his financial empire.
Despite his banking success, Ricci’s true passion was always horse racing. In 2005, he made the leap into Irish racing, forging a legendary partnership with trainer Willie Mullins.
A Powerhouse in Irish Horse Racing
Ricci and Mullins have since become one of the sport’s most successful owner-trainer duos. Speaking about their collaboration, Ricci once said:
“When I first met him, his yard was nowhere near as it is now. I asked, ‘Why aren’t you a champion trainer?’ He said, ‘I don’t have the ammunition.’ I replied, ‘I’ll give you the ammunition.’ And we went from there.”
Cheltenham Festival 2025: The Stakes Are High
With £4.93 million in prize money across 28 races, Cheltenham 2025 is one of the biggest events in the sport. While Ricci’s horses were among the top contenders, Gaelic Warrior was withdrawn from the Champion Chase, sparking debate.
Whether his horses win or not, Ricci remains a dominant force in racing, proving that his business acumen extends far beyond finance.
