Cheltenham Festival-winning jockey Michael O’Sullivan has tragically passed away from injuries sustained during a fall at Thurles on February 6, the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB) has confirmed.
The 24-year-old was riding Wee Charlie for trainer Gerard O’Leary when he was involved in a fall at the final fence of the two-mile Racing Again February 20th Handicap Chase. Following the accident, the remainder of the meeting was abandoned as an air ambulance transported O’Sullivan to Cork University Hospital, where he had remained in intensive care until his passing.
The IHRB released a statement on Sunday morning, expressing their deep sorrow: “On behalf of the O’Sullivan family, it is with profound sadness that the IHRB confirms the passing of Michael O’Sullivan.” They extended condolences to his family, partner, friends, colleagues in the weighing room, and the broader racing community.
Dr. Jennifer Pugh, chief medical officer of the IHRB, praised O’Sullivan’s family for their selflessness during such a devastating time, noting their decision to donate his organs would have a profound impact on others. She described Michael as a dedicated and kind individual who inspired many throughout his amateur and professional career.
Champion trainer Willie Mullins paid tribute, saying, “He was such a natural rider who was very modest, friendly, and understated. Closutton will be a much poorer place without him, and we, as a family, will miss him greatly.”
British champion jockey Harry Cobden, among others in the racing community, expressed condolences on social media, calling the news “absolutely devastating.” Peter Roe, general manager of Fairyhouse racecourse, reflected on O’Sullivan’s achievements and described him as a “huge credit to his family, friends, and our industry.”
O’Sullivan was a rising star, known for his remarkable victories at Cheltenham, including his 2023 win aboard Marine Nationale in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle. His career stats boasted 90 winners over jumps in Ireland and five in Britain from over 1,000 rides.
As a mark of respect, Sunday’s meeting at Punchestown and Irish point-to-point fixtures at Knockanard, Nenagh, and Tinahely were canceled.
Source: Swifteradio.com
