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Why? The answer is simple: horse owners are business people, while jockeys are independent workers who can freely choose their jobs. This combination makes jockey selection highly dynamic, full of opportunity, but also full of risk.

In North America, jockeys are not full-time employees. They are freelancers who must manage their own careers, including finding rides.

That’s why most professional jockeys have agents whose jobs include: finding horses for the jockey to ride (called a mount), networking with trainers and owners, and arranging race schedules.
 

2. Moving Circuits or Racetracks
Top horses often travel between tracks — or even countries. When that happens, owners or trainers must decide whether to bring their regular jockey or hire a local jockey who knows the track better. For major races, the main jockey usually travels with the horse.

3. Change in Race Strategy
Just like athletes, every jockey has a style. Some are aggressive and prefer to lead early. Others are patient and excel at holding the horse back for a late charge.
If a trainer wants to try a new tactic — for example, starting closer to the pacesetters — they may choose a jockey whose riding style matches the new plan.

4. Seeking More Experience
This often affects young jockeys. Apprentice jockeys receive a weight allowance, meaning the horses they ride carry less weight. This is beneficial — but it does not apply in stakes races.

Once an apprentice graduates to journeyman level, they lose that advantage and must compete directly with senior riders. If their horse develops into a major race contender, like a Kentucky Derby prospect, the owner may replace the young jockey with a more experienced one.
 

In horse racing, when performances fall short, jockeys often take the blame. Did the jockey ask the horse too late? Choose the wrong lane? Get trapped with no room in the stretch?

Regardless of public opinion, the owner’s and trainer’s opinions are what matter — and they can replace a jockey at any time.

Being a jockey is an extreme profession: high-risk, high-pressure, and packed with an intense schedule. Yet nearly all jockeys agree on one thing: the thrill of crossing the finish line first, accompanied by the roar of the crowd, makes every sacrifice worth it.

(Source: America’s Best Racing)