AP McCoy: I won't quit after Cheltenham

AP McCoy wants to ride in the Grand National. Credit: PA

Tony McCoy has revealed it is extremely doubtful he will hang up his saddle at the Cheltenham Festival.

The 19-times champion wants the chance to win a second Grand National, in which he is set to partner ante-post favourite Shutthefrontdoor, before he retires.

Speaking at a press conference at Oaksey House in Lambourn before being in action at Newbury, McCoy virtually ruled out ending his career after riding Carlingford Lough in the Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup.

"It's very, very unlikely I will retire in the Gold Cup, I want to ride in the Grand National," he said.

"When I start something I want to finish it."

McCoy rates reigning Stan James Champion Hurdle hero Jezki as his best chance of riding a winner at his final Festival.

Barry Geraghty steered Jessica Harrington's stable star to last year's triumph as McCoy elected to ride fellow JP McManus-owned runner My Tent Or Yours, but the champion jockey will be on board this time.

He said: "The horse I'm most looking forward to riding at the Festival is Jezki. I think he has got the best chance of winning.