Jockey Richard Hills has confirmed that he will retire from horse racing following the conclusion of next month's Dubai World Cup.

Hills, 49, took the opportunity to thank Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum for the opportunities that he has provided him with throughout large parts of his career.

"It has been my privilege to ride for Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum as first jockey for the last 15 years and previously as second jockey to W Carson for two years," read a statement from Hills.

"No jockey could have ridden for a more loyal and supportive owner. I was very fortunate to start my career with a great man in Tom Jones and without him much of what I have achieved would not have been possible."

Hills's career has spanned 33 years.