MONTY ROBERTS: The Man Who Changed the Conversation Between Horse and Human

Racing remembers the pioneering horseman whose belief in communication over confrontation transformed approaches to horses worldwide.

Monty Roberts, the legendary American horseman known worldwide as “The Man Who Listens to Horses”, has died aged 91, leaving a legacy that extends far beyond the racecourse.

Born Marvin Earl Roberts in Salinas, California, in 1935, he grew up surrounded by horses. As a teenager, Roberts observed wild mustangs and became fascinated by the subtle ways horses communicated through movement, posture and expression.

He called this silent language Equus, and from it developed Join-Up — a method based on communication, trust and cooperation rather than fear and force.

It would become his life's work.

Roberts established Flag Is Up Farms in California's Santa Ynez Valley, developing an international reputation while also making his mark in Thoroughbred racing.

He recognised the potential of Alleged, who went on to win consecutive Prix de l'Arc de Triomphes in 1977 and 1978, while one of the most celebrated examples of his methods came with the talented German racehorse Lomitas.

After developing serious behavioural problems around the starting stalls, Lomitas was sent to Roberts, who helped rebuild the colt's confidence. He returned to racing to become a multiple Group 1 winner and later an influential stallion.

Roberts' international profile changed dramatically in 1989 when Queen Elizabeth II, herself a passionate and highly knowledgeable horsewoman, invited him to Britain to demonstrate his methods.

Their shared love of horses developed into an enduring friendship. The Queen encouraged Roberts to write about his philosophy, leading to the publication of The Man Who Listens to Horses in 1996.

The book became an international bestseller, taking his ideas to millions of readers far beyond the equestrian world.

In 2011, Roberts was appointed an honorary Member of the Royal Victorian Order for services to Her Majesty's racing establishment.

Yet his greatest contribution cannot be measured through honours, bestselling books or famous horses.

Roberts challenged generations of horsemen to reconsider the relationship between horse and human. He argued that patience was not weakness, that understanding could achieve what force could not, and that the horse should be treated as a willing participant rather than an adversary.

Modern racing increasingly recognises the importance of equine welfare, temperament and mental wellbeing. Roberts was among those who helped move that conversation forward.

Monty Roberts spent his life being described as a man who could talk to horses.

In truth, his greatest gift was simpler.

He listened.

And racing is richer for having listened to him.

Monty Roberts — 1935–2026 written by Rory Paddock