Jockey Michael O’Sullivan Dies at 24 After Fall in Horse Race: ‘An Exceptionally Talented Young Rider'

Mar. 15, 2025

Michael O’Sullivan.Photo:John Walton/PA Images via Getty

John Walton/PA Images via Getty

Irish jockey Michael O’Sullivan has died days after getting injured when he fell in a race. He was 24.

O’Sullivan was hospitalized and put in an induced coma after falling at the two-mile Racing Again February 20th Handicap Chase on Feb. 6. He died from his injuries on Sunday, Feb. 16, the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board confirmed in apress release.

“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,” Pugh added that O’Sullivan’s family donated his organs.

Michael O’Sullivan, pictured in 2024.John Walton/PA Images via Getty

O’Sullivan was one of three jockeys who fell at the final fence during the two-mile Racing Again February 20th Handicap Chase at Thurles Racecourse in Ireland,BBC Sportsreported.

O’Sullivan was named champion rider under 21 in 2019, before turning professional in September 2022. His career took off a year later when he won the Supreme Novices' Hurdle at Cheltenham aboard Marine Nationale, per BBC Sports.

He rode 95 winners in Ireland and Britain throughout his career. He also won the Fred Winter with Jazzy Matty and was crowned the champion conditional in Ireland with 32 winners, per the UK newspaperThe Guardian.

“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,” Pugh continued. “Michael’s success and his humility will have inspired many and I share the feeling of loss today with all those who knew him.”

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Michael O’Sullivan, pictured in 2024.Brian Lawless/PA Images via Getty

Brian Lawless/PA Images via Getty

Sporting events at Punchestown and various other locations in Ireland due to take place on Sunday, Feb. 16 have been canceled in respect of the news of O’Sullivan’s death.

source: people.com