Racehorse owner the Aga Khan and Johnny Murtagh part ways

Top racehorse owner the Aga Khan has split with Johnny Murtagh, his number one jockey in Ireland.

The parting is down to unspecified differences between the pair.

Murtagh, 42, won many big races for the Aga Khan, including victories on Sinndar in the Epsom Derby and Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe in 2000.

"There were differences between the parties and it was agreed that we would part," said Pat Downes, the Aga Khan's Irish stud farm manager.

Murtagh, who signed up for a second stint with the owner in November 2010, has ridden 46 winners this year in Ireland. Five of his top six money-earners have been John Oxx-trained Aga Khan horses.

"I would like to thank His Highness and his staff at his studs in Ireland and France for the very successful years we have had together and to sincerely wish them every success in the future," said Murtagh.