Irish jockey Michael O’Sullivan dead at 24 after fall from horse

Tragedy struck the horse racing world over the weekend after it was announced that a young jockey had died.

According to Breitbart, Irish jockey Michael O’Sullivan died from injuries sustained from falling off his horse at Thurles Racecourse earlier this month. He was only 24.

The tragic fall that ultimately led to his death occurred at the Racing Again Handicap Chase on Feb. 6.

The late jockey was seen as a rising star in his field, having already amassed 95 wins since 2022.

O'Sullivan was praised by family, friends, and colleagues for his incredible skill in jockeying horses, with no shortage of compliments regarding his ability to connect with the animals and oftentimes emerge victorious.

RIP Michael O’Sullivan pic.twitter.com/13uppAsJkZ

— Racing Bulletin (@racingbulletin) February 16, 2025

Irish Horse Racing Regulatory Board (IHRB) CEO Darragh O’Loughlin released a statement on the young jockey's sudden death, noting his skill and work ethic to work to be one of the best in the sport.

Michael was an exceptionally talented young rider who was always popular in the weighroom," the statement read.

It added, "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."

IHRB Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jennifer Pugh, who knew the young jockey, also praised his skills and announced that his family had decided to donate his organs.

"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," Pugh's statement read.

Pugh added, "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."

Trainer Willie Mullins praised O'Sullivan praised his riding skills and work ethic, describing him as a "natural rider."

"He was here two mornings a week and was very much a part of the team, and his part here was only going to get bigger. He was such a natural rider who was very modest, friendly, and understated," Mullins wrote.