Nine-time Epsom Derby winner Lester Piggott has been admitted to hospital in Switzerland, according to his son – in – law and England coach William Haggas.

Haggas did not disclose why the 86 – year – old Piggot was taken to hospital, but told Sky Sports Racing: “He’s a little difficult, but he’s a tough man.

Piggott’s eldest daughter’s wife, Maureen, will visit him at the hospital later Monday, and Piggott’s son, Jamie, was at his bedside on Sunday, Haggas said.

“I hope he recovers and returns home as soon as possible,” he said.

“All we can do is train a lot of winners and have fun, that’s what we’re trying to do. ⁇

“I do not think he thinks he has achieved anything, but he does like the praise he receives every time he goes out in public. ⁇

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Regarded as one of the best jockeys in sports history, Piggot was admitted to the intensive care unit in 2007 following a recurrence of a heart problem, but recovered quickly.

Nicknamed “The Long Fellow” because of the unusual height of the flat jockey, he has lived near Geneva since 2012.

Piggott’s statues have been adorned on nine race courses in England, including Ascot, where he holds the record for most Royal Ascot victories by 116, with one being unveiled on Saturday at Ireland’s flagship race course, The Curaao.

Through his association with coach Vincent O’Brien, he has driven 16 Irish stock winners to the track.

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The three-time Prix DL RCD Triomph winner jockey, who has driven more than 5,000 winners around the world, was known as a housewife’s favorite when choosing an Epsom Derby horse for stability.

However, he said in 2015 that his reputation would fade over time.

“I think a lot of old people still remember me,” he told the Racing Post.

“I’m probably famous for them, but young people do not really know who I am. Hobbies. ⁇