A quick chat with legendary champion jockey Frankie Dettori  who talks about his career and Epsom showpiece event The Derby.

Why is the Investec Derby the one every jockey wants to win?

It’s the most famous race in the world. It’s the equivalent of the Monaco Grand Prix, Wimbledon, the Masters. The Investec Derby – this is it.

When did you first decide you wanted to be a jockey?

When I was 11.

Who has had the biggest influence on your career?

That’s got to be my dad.

Authorised or Golden Horn? [his two Derby winners]

Golden Horn

Most memorable ride?

Golden Horn in the Arc [The pair won the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, Group 1, in October 2015]

Surrey Comet:

Frankie Dettori with Golden Horn

What is your earliest racing memory?

My dad took me to Milan racecourse, playing in the playground with the other kids.

Is there a horse you are particularly excited about riding in 2017?

Galileo Gold.

You’ve won some of the richest races in the world, including the Investec Derby twice, what is your biggest splurge?

A Ferrari 360 when I was 29.

It’s well know you are a big Arsenal fan, why the Gunners?

In the late 80s they were the best team and the first team I saw over here [in Britain] – at Highbury.

If not a jockey what would you be?

I’d like to be golfer or footballer.

As a jockey you travel all over the world, where is your favourite place?

I would say Dubai.

Who would play you in a movie?

Antonio Balderas.

What would be your last meal on earth?

Melanze parmigiana.

What is your karaoke song of choice?

None. I’m absolutely s**t!

If you were an animal what would you be?

Probably a horse.

What advice would you give your 10-year-old self?

Enjoy life.

Do you have any hobbies?

Not really – relaxing watching sport, I’m a bit of couch potato. I play a little bit of golf, but not well. I have a very hectic life, most my life is outside so when I do have a day off I like to stay inside.

Frankie Dettori has won The Derby 'the greatest flat race in the world' on two occasions and is an ambassador for the Investec Derby Festival 2017. The Investec Derby is a two-day festival on June 2 and 3 at Epsom Downs Racecourse, Surrey. www.epsomderby.co.uk