The Villoo C. Poonawalla Indian Derby is a prize every jockey in the world dreams of adding to his résumé. That dream came true for British ace Tom Marquand, who etched his name in Indian turf history with a stirring victory astride Fynbos at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse on February 1.

“Winning this Derby is a dream come true for any jockey,” said an elated Marquand moments after the race. “I feel truly privileged to have achieved it today.”

Marquand became the first foreign jockey to win the Indian Derby since David Allan’s triumph aboard Rochester in 2018. In the years since, Indian riders have ruled the blue-riband event — Suraj Narredu winning three editions, Yash Narredu scoring in 2024 and Sandesh claiming last year’s honours — making Marquand’s success all the more significant.

“For me, this is the biggest race,” Marquand admitted. “I’ve been trying for the last two years without luck, but today it finally came together.”

The 29-year-old has long established himself as one of the most respected talents in international racing. Best known for his association with trainer William Haggas, and for sharing the weighing room — and life — with fellow top jockey Hollie Doyle, Marquand’s global résumé is formidable. He has captured multiple Group 1 victories aboard Addeybb, won the 2025 St Leger on Scandinavia, and now adds the 2026 Indian Derby to his growing collection.

From humble beginnings in pony racing, Marquand rose swiftly through the ranks, joining Richard Hannon as an apprentice before being crowned Champion Apprentice in 2015. A true globe-trotter, he rides regularly in Australia, Hong Kong and Japan, and in 2025 alone competed across nine different countries.

With a smile and quiet confidence, Marquand signed off with a promise Indian racing fans will love to hear, “I’ll be back next year — and I’d love to do it all over again.”

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