JP McManus announces Harry Cobden as new number one rider
By Harry Allwood
Last Updated: Mon 12 Jan 2026
JP McManus has announced that Harry Cobden will be his new number one rider in both Britain and Ireland, and the former champion jockey will begin his new role in May.
Since Barry Geraghty retired in 2020, Mark Walsh has been McManus's retained rider in Ireland, but Cobden will be based on both sides of the Irish Sea when embarking on his new role after this season.
Cobden, who was crowned champion conditional at the end of the 2016-17 season, has been based Paul Nicholls since 2015, and the 27-year-old was crowned champion jump jockey in Britain in the 2023-24 season.
The leading rider has ridden 13 winners for McManus in his career from 67 rides in the famous green and gold colours.
A statement from McManus to the Racing Post said: "JP McManus has announced the appointment of Harry Cobden as his retained rider for the forthcoming National Hunt season in both the UK and Ireland."
Commenting on the decision, McManus said: "I'm delighted to secure Harry Cobden’s services for next season."
Cobden has expressed his delighted at the new move, saying: "It’s a privilege to be named retained rider for JP McManus. I’m very grateful for the opportunity and excited for the season ahead in the UK and Ireland.”
More to follow...
Enjoy a FREE one month trial of Racing TV!
Related posts
‘A sad day’ – Nicholls hit hard by fatal injury to Kalif Du Berlais
Angus McNae's Sunday tips: best bets at Punchestown and Chelmsford
Paul Townend: the inside track on my Sunday rides
Saturday tips: Dave Nevison likes a 16-1 chance in the Lanzarote Hurdle
Sober stakes Cheltenham claim with Moscow Flyer win
Featured offers
Get 50% back up to £50 with QuinnBet
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Bet £10 Get £30 in free bets with Betano
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Bet £10 get £30 in free bets with BetVictor
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Bet £10 get £30 in free bets with TalkSportBet
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Bet £10 get £40 in Free Bets + get money back if 2nd to SP fav with Boyle Sports
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Copyright 2026 Racing TV - All Rights Reserved.
Please bet responsibly
Copyright 2026. All rights reserved