(Jockey Corey Lanerie will retire at the end of the current meet at Churchill Downs / Photo by Coady Media)

From the Churchill Downs Media Team / Darren Rogers:

LANERIE TO RETIRE FOLLOWING CHURCHILL DOWNS SPRING MEET

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Friday, June 12, 2026) – Following a 35-year riding career that included more than 5,000 victories, jockey Corey Lanerie announced he will retire at the conclusion of the Churchill Downs Spring Meet on Sunday, June 28.

Lanerie, 51, will leave the sport with mounts that earned more than $172 million in prize money and at least 1,244 victories at Churchill Downs alone, second all-time behind Hall of Famer Pat Day‘s 2,482 wins.

“I’ve been fortunate to do this for more than 35 years and make a living doing something I truly love,” Lanerie said. “When I started riding as a kid in Louisiana, I never dreamed I’d win more than 5,000 races or have the opportunities I’ve had. I’m so grateful for everyone who’s helped me get where I am today.”

A native of Lafayette, La., Lanerie recorded his first career victory on April 19, 1991 at Evangeline Downs aboard High Hopes Banquet for trainer Charles “CD” Delahoussaye. He went on to establish himself as one of the sport’s most successful riders, winning riding titles at Churchill Downs, Ellis Park, Lone Star Park, Retama Park and Sam Houston Race Park.

One of Lanerie’s most notable accomplishments came in April 2023 at Keeneland when he won his 5,000thcareer race, a milestone achieved by only 39 riders in North America.

He also found success in many of racing’s biggest races. His seven Grade I victories include three editions of the Ashland Stakes at Keeneland with Hooh Why (2009), Weep No More (2016) and Sailor’s Valentine (2017). His best Kentucky Derby (GI) finish came aboard Lookin At Lee, who rallied along the rail to finish second in 2017. The year before, he guided Cherry Wine to a runner-up finish in the Preakness Stakes (GI).

At Churchill Downs, Lanerie became one of the best jockeys to ever ride beneath the historic Twin Spires. Since his first win there aboard Embraceable on Nov. 21, 2000 for trainer Mike Stidham, he went on to win 19 leading rider titles, second behind Day’s 34. He also won some of the track’s most prestigious races, including the 2020 Derby City Distaff (GI) aboard Bell’s the One and the 2015 La Troienne (GI) aboard Molly Morgan.

“Churchill Downs became a second home for me,” Lanerie said. “To spend so much of my career there and accomplish what I did means a lot. There are so many trainers, owners, agents and fans who supported me through the years, and I can’t thank them enough.

“The hardest part is walking away from the competition because I still love riding,” Lanerie continued. “I feel like this is the right time. I’m looking forward to spending more time with my family. Racing has given me a wonderful life, and I’ll always be thankful for that. I’m not sure exactly what the future holds, but I’m looking forward to the next chapter.”

DOWN THE STRETCH – Racing resumed Friday with a nine-race card that had a first post of 12:45 p.m. There was a $43,058 carryover in the 20-cent Derby City 6 Jackpot that began in Race 4. … The main track was sealed to start training Friday morning due to early morning thunderstorms. It was rated as “good” and the turf was listed as “firm.” … Sunday is Military Appreciation Day and all active-duty and retired military members will receive free general admission with valid military ID. Also, active military members, veterans and their guests can purchase discounted $45 tickets to Millionaires’ Row by calling (502) 636-4450 or through GOVX, athttps://www.govx.com/a/601fe190-3f72-4d46-b698-08de73bbebad/churchill-downs.

 

ABOUT CHURCHILL DOWNS RACETRACK

Churchill Downs Racetrack (“CDRT”), the world’s most legendary racetrack, has been the home of The Kentucky Derby, the longest continually held annual sporting event in the United States, since 1875. Located in Louisville, CDRT features a series of themed race days during Derby Week, including the Kentucky Oaks, and conducts Thoroughbred horse racing during three race meets in the Spring, September, and the Fall. CDRT is located on 175 acres and has a one-mile dirt track, a 7/8-mile turf track, a stabling area, and provides seating for approximately 60,000 guests. The stable area has barns sufficient to accommodate 1,400 horses and a 114-room dormitory for backstretch personnel. CDRT also has a year-round simulcast wagering facility.www.ChurchillDowns.com.