Talamo joins FanDuel TV as full-time analyst

Joe Talamo, the Eclipse Award winner for Outstanding Apprentice Jockey in 2007, has joined FanDuel TV as a full-time host and analyst, the network announced on Monday.

Talamo, who has appeared on FanDuel occasionally over the past year after announcing a hiatus from riding in October, will provide racing analysis, conduct interviews, and create “educational content” for racing fans in his role, FanDuel said.

“After more than 20 years in the saddle, stepping into this new role lets me share the stories, strategy, and split-second decisions that define this sport from the inside out,” Talamo said in a release. “FanDuel TV’s dedication to authentic, expert-driven coverage is exactly what racing needs, and I’m proud to be part of it.”

:: Access the most trusted data and information in horse racing! DRF Past Performances and Picks are available now.

Gabby Gaudet, one of FanDuel’s top analysts, announced last month that she was leaving the network to take a job as the director of communications for Keeneland in Lexington, Ky.

Talamo notched 2,343 wins from 16,655 rides during his 20-year career, with $131.6 million in purse earnings. A native of Louisiana, Talamo began riding at age of 11 in the area’s bush tracks and went on to ride in Japan, Dubai, and Hong Kong.

“Joe represents exactly what we seek in our racing coverage: the unique expertise of a winning jockey, paired with an engaging personality to connect with both seasoned handicappers and newcomers to the sport,” said Michael Shiffman, FanDuel TV's senior vice president. “His track record speaks for itself, and his ability to evaluate complex racing strategy in an approachable way will be invaluable to our viewers.”

:: Want to learn more about handicapping and wagering? Check out DRF's Handicapping 101 and Wagering 101 pages.