After dominating the Malaysian jockeys’ scene last year, Andre Luis Da Silva is embarking on a new challenge in South Korea.

The Brazilian booted home 72 winners last year – 27 wins more than second-placed Ridzuan Shafiq – and spent Christmas and New Year visiting Ruan Maia in the Land of the Morning Calm. His compatroit was the one who introduced him to trainer Winson Cheng Han Yong, paving the way for Da Silva to ride in Malaysia.

Da Silva is currently visiting his family and friends in Brazil before heading to South Korea next month.

“I am moving once again to a new country with my family and I hope it will be very good like my time in Malaysia,” said Da Silva.

“I want to convey my special thanks to trainer Cheng who brought me to Malaysia for the first time and make everything possible for me and my family.

“Also a big hug to everybody at the HY Cheng Stable who worked with me everyday.

“Thanks also to all the trainers and owners who gave me good rides and winners, and to Selangor Turf Club for opening the doors for me.”

“I feel very honoured and happy in winning the 2025 championship. It was a great season and it wouldn’t be possible without the support of all the owners and trainers who gave me good opportunities.

“Winning the championship was really a good surprise. After all everything was new to me and I am very happy about that.

“When I first came, I was just expecting to win some good races but honestly we never know what’s coming ahead when starting in a new country. So I can only be grateful for what I achieved.

Da Silva rode as visiting jockey in July 2024 and came back to ride long term in November that year, winning 11 races for the season including the Penang Gold Cup on Lucky Magic.

Da Silva was firing on all cylinders last year, booting home winners with regularity and had the title virtually in his bag by the middle part of the year.

His biggest win in 2025 came in the Selangor God Cup astride Lucky Magic, trained by Cheng.

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