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Kia Joorabchian is a name synonymous with high-stakes dealings and influence in both football and horse racing. Born in Iran, Joorabchian’s rise to prominence began in the world of football, where he established himself as one of the most successful and controversial football transfer agents of his generation. Over the years, his business acumen, vast network, and strategic thinking have allowed him to carve out an extraordinary career in multiple industries, culminating in his foray into the high-end world of thoroughbred racing with his racing operation, Amo Racing.
The Rise in Football Transfers:
Joorabchian’s involvement in football can be traced back to the early 2000s, when he began representing high-profile football players and orchestrating major transfers. He quickly gained a reputation for securing lucrative deals and navigating the complex world of football transactions with efficiency and boldness. His name first became widely known when he facilitated the transfer of players like Carlos Tévez and Javier Mascherano to West Ham United in 2006, which generated considerable media attention due to the unconventional nature of the deal. The transfer sparked an investigation into the ownership of the players’ economic rights, which had been sold to Joorabchian’s company, Media Sports Investment (MSI), a practice that was, at the time, highly controversial.
While Joorabchian’s methods of conducting transfers were often seen as innovative, they also attracted criticism and legal challenges, particularly concerning the practice of third-party ownership of players. However, despite these controversies, Joorabchian continued to thrive as a football agent, negotiating high-value contracts and maintaining relationships with some of the world’s most prominent football clubs. His connections to global football powerhouses and wealthy club owners helped him secure major deals, and over time, he established himself as one of the most influential agents in the sport.
Transition to Horse Racing: Amo Racing:
Though Joorabchian made his fortune in football, his interest in horse racing grew over time, leading to the formation of his own racing operation, Amo Racing. The transition from football to racing was a natural one for Joorabchian, who had long been a fan of the sport and saw it as a lucrative avenue to diversify his investments.
Founded in 2019, Amo Racing quickly gained attention in the horse racing world. Joorabchian’s approach to racing was similar to his approach in football—focused on quality, strategic acquisitions, and high-profile investments. With Amo Racing, Joorabchian set out to build a competitive force in the sport, aiming for success on the track while also leveraging his connections and experience to make high-stakes purchases at top auctions.
One of the most significant moments in Amo Racing’s rise came with the acquisition of top-quality yearlings at major auctions, including the prestigious Tattersalls October Yearling Sale in Newmarket. Joorabchian made headlines in 2024 with the purchase of a Frankel filly for 4.4 million guineas (£4.62m), the second-highest price ever for a yearling at a European auction. This purchase solidified Amo Racing’s place as a significant player in the world of elite horse racing.
In addition to the Frankel filly, Amo Racing has also been involved in several high-profile acquisitions of top-tier thoroughbreds, furthering Joorabchian’s aim of building a world-class stable capable of competing at the highest level. Under his leadership, Amo Racing has made significant investments in bloodstock, focusing on horses with the potential to succeed on the track and, in some cases, become future stallions. The success of Amo Racing’s horses, coupled with Joorabchian’s wealth and business strategies, has earned him respect in the racing community.
Joorabchian’s Philosophy and Ambition in Racing:
For Joorabchian, the move into horse racing was more than just a business opportunity—it was a passion project that allowed him to channel his competitive spirit into a new arena. His strategy mirrors his approach in football, emphasizing quality over quantity and targeting the very best horses at top sales. Amo Racing’s early success is a testament to Joorabchian’s understanding of the industry, his ability to make shrewd acquisitions, and his commitment to building a long-term legacy in the sport.
Speaking about his ambitions for Amo Racing, Joorabchian has emphasized that his goal is to not only achieve immediate success but also to leave a lasting impact on the racing world. “For us to get to the next level, we have to target the best stock,” Joorabchian has said, referring to the significant investments made in securing some of the finest bloodstock available, including a £4M+ Frankel filly. His willingness to spend millions on yearlings at auction reflects his belief in the long-term potential of the sport and his commitment to success.
The Future of Amo Racing:
With the continued backing of Joorabchian’s wealth and vision, Amo Racing is poised for even greater success in the years to come. Joorabchian’s track record as a football agent and his strategic investments in horse racing suggest that Amo Racing will continue to be a major force in the sport. As he further strengthens the operation, the potential for victory in some of the world’s most prestigious races remains high, positioning Joorabchian and Amo Racing as one of the most exciting and ambitious players in the horse racing industry.
Joorabchian’s journey from football agent to horse racing mogul highlights his ability to adapt and thrive in different fields, demonstrating his skill in navigating the complexities of elite sports. With Amo Racing, he is poised to leave a significant legacy in the world of thoroughbred racing, continuing to blend passion, strategy, and business acumen to great effect.
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