Cheltenham Festival-winning jockey Michael O’Sullivan has tragically passed away due to injuries sustained in a fall at Thurles on February 6. The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB) confirmed his untimely death in a statement, expressing profound sadness on behalf of O’Sullivan’s family.
O’Sullivan was riding Wee Charlie for trainer Gerard O’Leary when he suffered the fall at the final fence during the two-mile Racing Again February 20th Handicap Chase. The rest of the meeting was subsequently abandoned as emergency services transported him to Cork University Hospital, where he was placed in the intensive care unit.
The IHRB statement extended sincere condolences to O’Sullivan’s family, friends, and colleagues within the racing community, highlighting his impact and legacy in the sport. Recognized as one of the rising stars in horse racing, O’Sullivan achieved notable victories, including steering Marine Nationale to triumph in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham in 2023.
With a career tally of 90 winners over jumps in Ireland and five in Britain from over 1,000 rides, O’Sullivan’s contributions to the sport will be remembered fondly.
Dr. Jennifer Pugh, chief medical officer of the IHRB, confirmed that O’Sullivan passed away surrounded by family, expressing gratitude for the medical teams who cared for him. She acknowledged the family’s decision to donate his organs, which will significantly benefit other patients in need.
The racing community has expressed an outpouring of grief, with several jockeys and officials sharing their condolences and memories. Events, including Sunday’s meeting at Punchestown and Irish point-to-point fixtures, have been cancelled in honor of O’Sullivan’s legacy.
