Rachael Blackmore, one of National Hunt racing’s most iconic figures – and one of Ireland’s most admired athletes – will be the new face of FBD Hotels & Resorts.
This exclusive two-year brand ambassador partnership was announced at The Curragh on Saturday, 9th August 2025. Rachael will feature in FBD Hotels & Resorts’ marketing campaigns and content shoots as well as make personal appearances at various events during this two-year partnership.
Commenting on the new partnership, David Kelly, CEO of FBD Hotels & Resorts, said:
“We are delighted that Rachael has agreed to partner with us. Her incredible, record-breaking achievements will be an inspiration to all our teams across the group. FBD Hotels & Resorts has at its core a deep culture and values, encompassing respect, working as one and taking responsibility, values which Rachael has shown throughout her career. Rachael transcends racing, and is an inspiration to many, young and old. It is fitting that someone of Rachael’s stature in the sport will now represent our brand. We look forward to seeing her as the face of our campaigns and as a special guest at occasions such as these race days and our conferences.”
Rachael Blackmore added:
“I’m proud to be joining FBD Hotels & Resorts as a brand ambassador. Their hotels are places I’ve visited and enjoyed over the years. They’ve always had a strong connection with Irish sport, especially in racing. What stood out to me was their focus on people – the importance they place on looking after their guests and supporting their team. I’m excited to be part of the journey and to see what we can build together over the next two years.”
A little information about Rachael Blackmore…
In 2021, Rachael made history by becoming the first female jockey to win the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham aboard the legendary Honeysuckle. Soon after, she went on to claim the Ruby Walsh Trophy as the Festival’s leading jockey with six winners – a groundbreaking first for a woman. Just weeks later, she shattered another barrier, becoming the first female jockey to win the Aintree Grand National, one of the world’s most prestigious and demanding races. Her victory on board Minella Times captivated an audience of over 600 million viewers worldwide.
And that was only the beginning. Rachael’s dominance in the saddle continued as she defended the Champion Hurdle with the unbeaten Honeysuckle and made further history by becoming the first woman to win the infamous Cheltenham Gold Cup aboard A Plus Tard. She went on to claim every major race at the Cheltenham Festival, alongside a host of other Grade One victories during her career, firmly cementing her place in racing folklore.
Her achievements on the track have been matched by widespread recognition off it. She has been named BBC World Sport Star of the Year, RTÉ Sportsperson of the Year, Irish Times Sportswoman of the Year, Independent Sportsperson of the Year and received Horse Racing Ireland’s Racing Hero Award, among many other accolades.
Rachael’s extraordinary career continues to inspire future generations – not only in racing, but across the wider worlds of sport and leadership.
