David Mullins

David is a horse racing expert at Gambling.com and a former professional National Hunt jockey who enjoyed major success at the highest level of British and Irish racing.

He famously won the 2016 Grand National aboard Rule The World at just 19 years old, becoming one of the youngest jockeys ever to win the race.

During a short but highly successful career, David rode 211 winners in Ireland and nine Grade 1 victories, partnering some of the leading National Hunt horses of his generation.

Areas of Expertise

• Horse Racing
• National Hunt Racing
• Grand National & Cheltenham
• Racing Form & Analysis
• British & Irish Racing

Professional Experience

David comes from one of Irish racing's best-known families. The son of trainer Tom Mullins and grandson of Paddy Mullins, he rode extensively for his uncle, multiple Irish champion trainer Willie Mullins.

His first Grade 1 victory arrived aboard Nichols Canyon in the 2015 Morgiana Hurdle, where the pair inflicted a first career defeat on the previously unbeaten Champion Hurdle winner Faugheen.

Just months later, David produced the defining ride of his career. On his first Grand National appearance, the 19-year-old partnered Mouse Morris-trained Rule The World to victory at Aintree, patiently guiding the 33/1 outsider to a six-length success.

Further Grade 1 victories followed aboard leading horses including Faugheen, Al Boum Photo, Bellshill and Kemboy. His major wins included the Champion Stayers Hurdle, Ryanair Gold Cup, Punchestown Gold Cup and Savills Chase.

David retired from race riding in 2021 at just 24, finishing his career with nine Grade 1 victories and 40 Graded wins.

What David Does at Gambling.com

At Gambling.com, David uses his first-hand experience in the saddle to provide expert horse racing analysis and betting insight.

His coverage includes the Cheltenham Festival, where he has produced race-by-race tips and predictions, assessing contenders through the perspective of someone who has ridden and won at the highest level of National Hunt racing.

David's experience allows him to consider factors beyond form figures alone, including a horse's jumping, race positioning, course demands and how different tactical scenarios can influence a contest.

Every contribution follows Gambling.com's Editorial Policy and draws on his experience as a Grade 1 and Grand National-winning jockey.