Where Is Umberto Rispoli Now? This Is the Winning Life of a Global Star Jockey
His race victories and personal indomitable qualities have quickly made Umberto Rispoli a name in international horse racing. Famous from Netflix’s Race for the Crown, the Italian-reared jockey has won on racetracks in France, Japan, Hong Kong, and the U.S. Now targeting the Kentucky Derby alongside undefeated horse Journalism, Rispoli has enjoyed some recent success. This is the story of his ascent and family life leading up to 2025, the latest evidence of the power of talent, teamwork, and tenacity.
Rispoli Settles Into Kentucky Derby Spotlight
Umberto Rispoli isn’t new to the Kentucky Derby, but 2025 might be his most significant chance yet. Having run in the last two Derbies and finishing ninth and fourteenth, he’s coming back with renewed confidence and an extraordinary partner—Journalism.
The thoroughbred has been on a phenomenal run, and Rispoli says he has never ridden a better dirt horse. Their recent Santa Anita Derby victory validated the pair’s chemistry, speed, and momentum for a Derby breakthrough.
Rispoli has previously spoken with great enthusiasm about the horse, referring to Journalism as a “great horse” and his best ride to date. This third trip to the starting gate at Churchill Downs could be the one that changes him from rising contender to champion.
With an expanding fanbase and massive support from the racing world, all eyes will be on Rispoli and Journalism as they look to cross the finish line first in one of racing’s most historic events.
From Gamely To Del Mar: A Career Full Of Milestones
It was a record-setting year for Rispoli in 20224. He is a double Grade 1 winner, winning both the Gamely Stakes and the Shoemaker Mile. These victories, with the horses Anisette and Johannes in turn, established a tall marker for his career and highlighted his dexterity in adapting to different mounts. And the victories didn’t end there. At Del Mar Racetrack, he collected two more for his growing resume: the Yellow Ribbon Handicap and the Eddie Read Stakes.
| Year | Race Name | Grade | Horse Name | Trainer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Gamely Stakes | G1 | Anisette | Leonard Powell |
| 2024 | Shoemaker Mile | G1 | Johannes | Tim Yakteen |
| 2024 | Yellow Ribbon Handicap | Listed | Anisette | Leonard Powell |
| 2024 | Eddie Read Stakes | G2 | Johannes | Tim Yakteen |
| 2025 | Santa Anita Derby | G1 | Journalism | — |
| 2025 | Frank E. Kilroe Mile | G1 | Formidable Man | — |
| 2025 | The Great Race Place (Allowance) | — | Private Gem | — |
Aside from the high-profile victories, Rispoli had a great season filled with consistent finishes. He won the Oceanside Stakes, the G2 Exacta Systems Ladies Sprint, the Grade III Bob Hope Stakes, and the Hollywood Derby.
Continuing the success in 2025, he has won more races with horses such as Formidable Man and Private Gem. His reported 20 percent win rate serves as both an impressive stat in the competitive racing world and a clear sign that he’s running at his best.
Family First, The Constant Behind The Crescendo
Beneath the racetrack success is a man rooted in family. After moving to California in 2020, Rispoli and his wife, Kimberly, created a beautiful home with their two sons, Hayden and Aramis. For more than 13 years, Kimberly has been his biggest cheerleader, offering consistent support during career highs and lows.
Their older son, Hayden, has also inherited his father’s passion for riding, bonding the two through hours at the stables. But 2024 was also a year of heartache. Rispoli lost his younger brother, Stefano Cherci, a loss that he continues to memorialize through memory and reflection.
Even with this personal tragedy, Rispoli stays grounded by his family’s love. Now married to his Brazilian wife, Anna, and a father, his kids and wife are a stabilizing factor in his life, where professional racing will always take precedent over leisure. His story is a reminder that real success often begins at home.
From Italy To The U.S. Racing Elite: A Global Journey
Umberto Rispoli did not start his journey on U.S. soil. A native of Italy, he worked his way through European racing, achieving victories in France before branching out to Japan and Hong Kong.
His move to the United States in 2020 was a turning point that led to opportunities in some of the sport’s biggest races. He has since become a familiar and respected name in American racing circles. Equipped with a diverse skill set and a willingness to adapt, Rispoli has shown he can win anywhere.
He speaks multiple racing languages and comes into his own under pressure — a quality that has helped him forge rapid connections with varied horses and trainers. His international background gives him a distinct advantage and expands his fan base on a global scale. Rispoli’s name has been hot from Italy to California.
FAQs
Who is Umberto Rispoli?
He is a professional jockey from Italy who lives in California This one is global — he races around the world. He is a top competitor in elite events, such as the Kentucky Derby.
What horse is he riding in the 2025 Kentucky Derby?
Rispoli is on Journalism, an undefeated horse who is favored to win the race.
Has Rispoli ever won the Kentucky Derby?
Not yet, but the Derby will be his third go-round in 2025, and he’s expected to be one of the favorites.
Who is Umberto Rispoli, and where does he live now?
He lives in California with his wife, Kimberly, and their two sons.
What have been his most recent highlights on the race track?
Recent victories include the Santa Anita Derby, the Shoemaker Mile, the Yellow Ribbon Handicap, and the Frank E. Kilroe Mile.
Final Words
Umberto Rispoli’s story is only beginning, but in the few chapters he has written, there are already indications of inspiration, resilience, and raw ability. Rispoli shows what it means to pursue your dreams with heart, whether it’s by setting records on the racetrack or spending quiet moments with family.
Having Journalism behind him and a clear path ahead, 2025 could seal his name as it relates to thoroughbred racing history. There is one thing for sure: Rispoli isn’t slowing down — he’s only getting started.
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