Irish jockey Michael O’Sullivan has tragically passed away following a fall at Thurles earlier this month. The 24-year-old had been in an induced coma at Cork University Hospital since the accident on February 6 but succumbed to his injuries in the early hours of Sunday morning, surrounded by his family.
Dr. Jennifer Pugh, chief medical officer of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB), confirmed the heartbreaking news, expressing gratitude for the dedicated medical teams who provided O’Sullivan with the highest level of care, both at the racecourse and in the hospital.
“Michael sadly passed away in the early hours of Sunday morning, surrounded by his loving family at Cork University Hospital,” Dr. Pugh stated. “His family deeply appreciates the outpouring of support they have received over the past few days and kindly request privacy at this difficult time.”
O’Sullivan was riding Wee Charlie for trainer Gerard O’Leary when he was involved in a three-horse fall at the final fence during the two-mile Racing Again February 20th Handicap Chase. He was treated on-site at Thurles before being airlifted to hospital. Following the incident, the remainder of the race meeting was abandoned.
A rising star in the world of racing, O’Sullivan claimed his first win under rules at Cork in 2018 and turned professional in September 2022. His breakthrough moment came the following year when he secured a stunning victory in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival aboard Marine Nationale. That same day, he also triumphed in the Fred Winter Handicap Hurdle with Jazzy Matty and later went on to be crowned Ireland’s champion conditional jockey.
Over the course of his career, O’Sullivan recorded 95 victories across Ireland and Britain, including 14 wins in Ireland and two in Britain this season.
Dr. Pugh also revealed that, in the midst of their immense grief, O’Sullivan’s family made the selfless decision to donate his organs. “Their choice will profoundly impact the lives of others, offering hope where there was none,” she said. “Michael was an exceptional talent and a genuinely kind individual whose success and humility made him an inspiration to many. His loss is deeply felt.”
Darragh O’Loughlin, chief executive of the IHRB, echoed these sentiments, remembering O’Sullivan as a gifted rider and a beloved figure in the racing world. “Michael was immensely talented and well-liked by his peers. His absence will be keenly felt throughout the sport. Our deepest sympathies go out to his parents, Bernadette and William, and his brother Alan.”
In a show of respect, Sunday’s scheduled race meeting at Punchestown, along with point-to-point fixtures in Ireland, has been canceled.
Trainer Barry Connell, who worked closely with O’Sullivan, described the young jockey’s passing as a devastating blow to the racing community. “Michael was a bright and rising star, and we were fortunate to share some incredible moments with him,” he said. “He was not only a gifted jockey but also a wonderful person, well-liked by all who knew him. His loss is deeply shocking.”
The wider racing world has also paid tribute to O’Sullivan.
British jockey Harry Skelton shared his condolences, saying: “Absolutely devastating news. My thoughts are with Michael’s family and friends. When we enter the weighing room, we all hope to walk back out together—his place will be empty for all the wrong reasons.”
Trainer Gordon Elliott added: “Our deepest sympathies go to Michael’s loved ones. Rest in peace.”
Andrew Coonan, secretary of the Irish Jockeys Association, reflected on the inherent risks of the sport, saying: “Jockeys understand the dangers they face daily, but it is only when a tragedy like this occurs that the full weight of those risks is realized. Michael was a talented rider and a great friend to many in the weighroom. His time with us was far too short, but we are richer for having known him.”
British trainer Ben Pauling called it “the worst news to wake up to,” while champion jump jockey Harry Cobden described the loss as “absolutely devastating.”
Brant Dunshea, acting chief executive of the British Horseracing Authority, said the tragedy had left the racing community reeling. “The bonds between British and Irish racing are strong, and this devastating loss will be felt deeply on both sides of the Irish Sea.”
Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin also expressed his condolences, saying: “Deeply saddened to learn of Michael O’Sullivan’s tragic passing. He was a talented rider who inspired many. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues in the racing world.”
Michael O’Sullivan’s legacy as a gifted and determined young jockey will live on in the hearts of those who knew and admired him. His impact on the sport will not be forgotten.
