Christophe Soumillon has lost his position as the Aga Khan's jockey in France after the powerful owner grew tired of the Belgian-born rider's antics.

According to a statement for the Aga Khan, "human relations became difficult" and, after an eight-year association, Soumillon will not have his contract renewed for 2010.

He will, however, continue to ride for the owner for the remainder of the 2009 Flat season.

Soumillon, 28, is no stranger to controversy. The three-time French champion jockey was criticised for his celebration after winning the 2006 King George aboard Hurricane Run when he pointed a finger at his backside in front of a packed grandstand.

He was also involved in an altercation with fellow jockey Jamie Spencer in Hong Kong in 2003.

A statement from the Aga Khan Studs read: "Christophe Soumillon will not be retained to ride the Aga Khan-owned horses in France after the 2009 Flat racing season. 

"After eight years under contract as the first rider in France, it has been decided as human relations have become difficult and after mutual agreement, that his contract will not be renewed for 2010.

"This separation has been agreed on amicable terms and Christophe Soumillon will ride out his contract for the rest of the 2009 season, and he could well be retained in the future to ride Aga Khan horses."

It seems likely that Frenchman Stephane Pasquier will be the biggest beneficiary, though with former Coolmore jockey Kieren Fallon set to make a comeback next Friday, some powerful owners may be looking to shuffle their deck at the end of the year.