Jon Lees

Union J singer JJ Hamblett is preparing to return to competitive horse racing in the Lester Legends Race at Doncaster on September 11, 2026, more than 15 years after his last ride. The former apprentice jockey, who rode 23 winners under Sir Michael Stoute, has resumed intensive training with John and Thady Gosden. Hamblett sees the charity event for the Injured Jockeys' Fund as a final opportunity to compete, potentially alongside friend Frankie Dettori. He is documenting the comeback on YouTube and is also considering a 15-year Union J reunion after the group’s success following The X Factor.