Michael O’Sullivan, the Cheltenham Festival winning jockey and one of racing’s rising stars, has tragically died due to the injuries he sustained in a fall at Thurles.
The sport is in mourning for the 24-year-old, who had been in Cork University Hospital since February 7 when his mount, Wee Charlie, crashed out at the final fence. He passed away on Sunday morning, five days short of his 25th birthday, with his family by his side.
O’Sullivan, whose biggest day in the saddle came at Cheltenham two years ago when he rode a double on Marine Nationale and Jazzy Matty, had been in an induced coma since he was airlifted to hospital after the incident, which led to the abandonment of the remainder of the Thurles card.
He is the first Irish National Hunt jockey to lose his life in an incident on course since Kieran Kelly, who died on August 12, 2003 following a fall at Kilbeggan four days earlier. As a mark of respect to O’Sullivan, Punchestown cancelled the card they were due to stage on Sunday.
In a statement Jennifer Pugh, the chief medical officer of the Irish Horse Racing Board, said: ‘Michael sadly passed away in the early hours of Sunday morning surrounded by his loving family in Cork University Hospital.
‘We extend our appreciation to the multidisciplinary teams who provided the best of medical care to Michael, both on the racecourse and in Cork University Hospital. Michael’s family took the decision to donate his organs at this incredibly difficult time.
Jockey Michael O’Sullivan has tragically died aged 24 from injuries he suffered during a fall
O’Sullivan, a two-time winner at Cheltenham, was involved in a five-horse pile-up at Thurles
‘But in doing so made a choice that will make a real difference to the lives of other patients and their families. I have had the privilege of knowing Michael through his amateur and professional career and his dedication, modesty and kind nature always made him a pleasure to be around.
‘Michael’s success and humility will have inspired many and I share the feeling of loss today with all those who knew him. Michael’s family would like to reiterate their gratefulness for all the support they have received in the last couple of days and express their appreciation to the local community and racing family. The O’Sullivan family have asked for privacy at this time.’
The impact of this dreadful news will be felt far and wide. O’Sullivan was a hugely respected young man, with a dedicated commitment to his profession. He had become a frequent visitor to tracks in England and rode winners at Hereford and Bangor-on-Dee last November.
Darragh O’Loughlin, CEO of the IHRB, said: ‘Michael was an exceptionally talented young rider who was always popular in the weighing room. Michael will be deeply missed by everyone in racing who had the pleasure of knowing him.
‘Our hearts go out to Michael’s family, especially his parents Bernadette and William, and his brother Alan, who will feel his loss most keenly.’
O’Sullivan had also enjoyed a link-up with the French yard of Noel George and Amanda Zetterholm but it was in Ireland where his star had risen; he turned professional in September 2022 and within three months had ridden Marine Nationale to his first Grade One success at Fairyhouse.
He was placed in an induced coma but tragically passed away surrounded by his family
A statement from the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board confirmed the news on Sunday
A cloud has hung over the sport while O’Sullivan has been in hospital and Brant Dunshea, the British Horseracing Authority’s acting Chief Executive, explained the profound impact that this awful news would have on the industry.
Duinshea said: ‘I was devastated to learn of the death of Michael O’Sullivan earlier today and speak for all involved in British racing when I say that our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family and friends at this awful time.
‘The bonds between the British and Irish racing communities are deep and this unspeakable tragedy will doubtless have a profound impact on many people on both sides of the Irish Sea.
‘This has been an extremely difficult week for many in the racing family; support is available and I would urge anybody who feels they need this to reach out to their employer or representative body.’
