Johnny Murtagh will replace Kieren Fallon as the stable jockey for owners John Magnier, Michael Tabor, and Derrick Smith in 2008.

Fallon was suspended last week for 18 months for testing positive in France for a narcotic, believed to be cocaine.

Murtagh rode regularly for Magnier and company while Fallon was banned from British racing while facing charges of race fixing, allegations that eventually were dismissed.

Murtagh guided Dylan Thomas (Ire) to a victory in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes (Eng-G1) and Peeping Fawn to victories in three Group 1 races in 2007 for Magnier, Tabor, and Smith.

“Johnny has already enjoyed plenty of success as part of the team at Ballydoyle and we are delighted to have him on board,” trainer Aidan O’Brien said.