FRANKIE RETURNS: Pictured at the Killarney Races is Gerard Coughlan with Italian horse racing jockey Frankie Dettori. Photo: Domnick Walsh

Champion jockey Frankie Dettori hopes to return to race in Killarney next year following the welcome he received in the town last week.

Although he narrowly missed out on riding a winner in his four action-packed races, the charismatic Italian was thrilled with the massive reception he received with the bumper attendance affording the three-time champion jockey the type of greeting normally reserved for All-Ireland winning Kerry teams.

“When I was asked to come here it was a good opportunity to see this beautiful part of the country and to have a good time,” Dettori said.

He was particularly impressed by what he described as the “beautiful setting” of the Ross Road course and said the track was challenging, rides really well and was in tip-top shape.

“This was the most successful July Racing Festival ever staged at the venue with an enormous crowd and worldwide coverage showing Killarney at its very best,” Killarney Race Company Chairman, Gerard Coughlan, said. “Dettori has hinted a return for a few days next year as he was absolutely blown away with the welcome, the town and the scenery.”