James Cummings joins Godolphin

James Cummings has been confirmed as head trainer for Godolphin Australia, replacing John O’Shea.

James Cummings has been appointed to succeed John O’Shea as Godolphin’s head trainer in Australia.

Cummings joins Godolphin after almost a decade at Leilani Lodge in Randwick as foreman, co-trainer with his late grandfather Bart Cummings and ultimately head trainer.

Godolphin’s managing director in Australia Henry Plumptre welcomed Cummings’ move to the global operation.

“James is a great fit for Godolphin and his appointment is an exciting new chapter in the Godolphin story in Australia,” he said.

“In a short space of time James has established himself as one of the most talented trainers in Australia and he has all the attributes to take us in the direction we want to go as a racing team both on and off the track.”

The 29-year-old takes up the position filled on an interim basis by Darren Beadman, on July 8.

O’Shea resigned last month after three years in the role.

Cummings gained his licence in 2013 and trained alongside his grandfather until the death of the legendary trainer in August 2015.

“It is truly an honour to be asked to join the Godolphin team as the head trainer in Australia and I am very grateful to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed for the opportunity,” Cummings said.

“I am confident in my experience and I definitely have the enthusiasm to build on the incredible success that has already been achieved by Godolphin in Australia.”

Beadman will continue as head trainer in the interim and then revert to his original role of assistant.

Since O’Shea’s departure, Cummings had been the frontrunner for the top job.

The Cummings-trained Prized Icon, winner of the Victoria Derby, is the co-favourite for next month’s Queensland equivalent.