Rich Ricci, the American-born banker turned horse racing mogul, remains a formidable figure in both the financial world and the racing industry. As of 2025, Ricci has a reported net worth of £100 million, amassed through a highly successful career in investment banking and bolstered by his significant contributions to horse racing. With his distinctive pink and fluorescent green racing silks, Ricci is a familiar and respected name at major racing festivals, including the much-anticipated Cheltenham Festival 2025.
From Nebraska to London’s Financial District
Born in Nebraska, United States, in 1964, Rich Ricci, now 61 years old, began his journey from the American heartland to becoming one of the most influential figures in European finance. After earning a finance degree from Creighton University, Ricci took his first steps into the world of banking at the Bank of Boston, later moving on to the Bank of New England.
In 1994, Ricci transitioned to Barclays de Zoete Wedd, the investment banking arm of Barclays. His talent and leadership quickly became apparent, and he steadily rose through the ranks. Eventually, he was appointed head of Barclays Investment Banking and Management, a position that cemented his reputation as one of the most successful bankers of his era. In 2011, Ricci made headlines when he was awarded a £44 million bonus, a figure that underscored his financial acumen during a period of strong performance at Barclays.
A Transition to Horse Racing Royalty
While Rich Ricci’s banking career placed him among the financial elite, it was his passion for horse racing that added another dimension to his legacy. Ricci entered the Irish horse racing scene in 2005, where he forged a powerful partnership with champion trainer Willie Mullins.
Since their early days of collaboration, Ricci and Mullins have enjoyed extraordinary success on the racing circuit. Reflecting on their longstanding relationship, Ricci once said: “I remember saying to him, ‘Why aren’t you a champion trainer?’ and he replied, ‘I don’t have the ammunition.’ So I said to him, if we have success, I’ll give you the ammunition — and we went from there.”
Their collaboration has since led to victories at prestigious events, including the Cheltenham Festival, where Ricci’s horses are regular contenders. Over the years, Ricci has become one of the most recognized owners in the sport, his horses consistently competing at the highest level.
Cheltenham Festival 2025: Ricci’s Key Moves
As Cheltenham Festival 2025 kicked off on March 11, Ricci and Mullins once again teamed up, entering several high-profile horses. However, one of the biggest stories leading up to the festival was the withdrawal of Ricci’s star horse, Gaelic Warrior, from the Champion Chase. Citing concerns over the horse’s campaign performance, Ricci made the strategic decision to pull Gaelic Warrior from the race, a move that was met with both surprise and speculation from racing fans and pundits.
In an unusual turn, Mullins also withdrew two other major contenders from the same race. The decision to reduce the number of Ricci-Mullins runners across key races has been seen as a calculated strategy to focus on select opportunities at this year’s festival, which boasts a total prize pot of £4.93 million across 28 races.
The Racing Colours That Stand Out
One of the most recognizable aspects of Rich Ricci’s racing brand is the vibrant pink and fluorescent green silks worn by his jockeys. The origin of this eye-catching color scheme is personal — his wife, Susannah Ricci, selected the palette after being inspired by a handbag she owned. The striking colors have since become iconic within the racing world, synonymous with Ricci’s competitive edge and flair for the dramatic.
Family Life and Business Ventures
Rich Ricci and his wife, Susannah, share not only a love for horse racing but also a passion for winemaking. Together, they own Yotes Court Vineyard, located in Kent, England. Their vineyard has been growing in prominence and reflects the couple’s shared interest in high-end lifestyle ventures beyond the racetrack.
Susannah Ricci, an accountant by profession, is also closely involved in the management of their horse racing interests, playing a key role behind the scenes in shaping the family’s racing strategy.
Ricci’s Legacy in Finance and Racing
With a career that spans decades and industries, Ricci has successfully balanced the high-stakes world of international banking with the equally competitive domain of elite horse racing. His journey from the financial institutions of Boston and London to becoming one of the most recognizable figures in Cheltenham’s winner’s circle is a testament to his adaptability and drive.
Ricci is a standout example of someone who has leveraged corporate success to fuel personal passions. Whether making boardroom deals at Barclays or celebrating at major racing events, Ricci has maintained a sharp focus on performance and results.