Michelle Payne Shares Joyful Baby News as She Begins a Beautiful New Chapter

Australian racing icon Michelle Payne has announced she is expecting her first child with partner Gabriel Ribeiro, sharing the joyful news in a rare and deeply personal social media post.

The 40-year-old surprised followers on Saturday with a touching photograph of the couple holding an ultrasound image of their baby.

Alongside the image, Payne shared a simple message filled with emotion:

“Little love is coming.”

For a sporting figure who has traditionally kept her private life away from the public spotlight, the announcement offered a meaningful glimpse into an exciting new chapter.

A Quiet Romance Away From Public Attention

Payne and Ribeiro have reportedly been together for just over a year after meeting through mutual friends connected to the racing industry.

Their relationship became public following a holiday in Bali, although the couple have continued to maintain a relatively private life together on Payne’s rural property.

That discretion made the pregnancy announcement particularly special for supporters who have followed Payne’s extraordinary journey both on and off the racetrack.

The Victory That Changed Australian Racing

Payne became part of Australian sporting history in 2015 when she rode Prince of Penzance to victory in the Melbourne Cup, becoming the first female jockey to win the prestigious race.

The remarkable triumph captured the nation’s attention, while her passionate post-race comments transformed the victory into a defining moment for women in Australian sport.

After proving her critics wrong on racing’s biggest stage, Payne proudly declared that women had “beaten the world.”

Nearly a decade later, the historic achievement remains one of the most memorable moments in Melbourne Cup history.

The Special Family Bond Behind Her Success

Beyond her racing accomplishments, Payne has frequently spoken about the close relationship she shares with her younger brother, Stevie Payne.

The siblings were raised in one of Australia’s most recognisable racing families and have supported one another through personal challenges, career milestones and unforgettable victories.

Stevie played an important role in Prince of Penzance’s Melbourne Cup campaign, and Michelle has often described sharing that historic day with him as one of the most meaningful parts of her success.

Supporting Stevie as His Life Changed

Their strong bond has continued beyond the racing world.

Michelle previously revealed that she had considered selling the farm she and Stevie purchased together in 2013 after her brother found love and began looking towards a different future.

Stevie had reportedly been considering a move to Melbourne to spend more time with his partner, Katherine, whom he met at a racing industry event.

For Michelle, supporting her brother’s happiness was more important than holding on to the property they had shared—a decision that reflected the family loyalty that has remained central to the Payne story.

A Different Kind of Dream Begins

Michelle Payne has spent much of her life overcoming setbacks, challenging expectations and inspiring Australians with her courage and determination.

Now, the woman who once created history before millions of racing fans is preparing for a far more personal milestone—the arrival of her first child.

This new chapter will not be measured by trophies, records or victories, but by family, love and the beginning of a dream she will share with Gabriel.

For one of Australia’s most admired sporting figures, it may become the most meaningful journey of all.