Top Norwegian jockey says female riders are overlooked despite equal skill

Frida Valle Skar (28), a top Norwegian jockey, claims female riders face discrimination in horse racing, stating they are overlooked for rides despite being equally skilled as men. She says trainers and owners prefer male jockeys. Skar, who has over 260 career wins since 2017, says women get fewer rides, lower-class horses, and fewer chances, though they deliver when given opportunities. Norwegian Galop's sports chief Liv Kristiansen supports her view, noting men dominate major races. Owner Cathrine Erichsen, who chose Skar for a recent Norwegian Derby win, disagrees with the discrimination claim, citing physical strength differences. Skar recently won at Ascot, beating legends, and made history in 2025 by winning the German 2000 Guineas.