RIP: Irish jockey Michael O'Sullivan dies in hospital ten days after fall in Thurles

Leading Irish jockey jockey Michael O'Sullivan has died as a result of head injuries he sustained in a fall at Thurles Racecourse in Tipperary ten days ago.

Following the incident, on February 6, the 24-year-old was airlifted to Cork University Hospital where his condition was described as critical.

In a statement confirming this death, in the early hours of this Sunday, the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (HRB), said racing in Punchestown and point-to-point events around the country have been cancelled as a mark of respect. 

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Dr Jennifer Pugh, Chief Medical Officer of the IHRB, 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."

Dr Pugh added that Michael’s family took the decision to donate his organs and that 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 his humility will have inspired many and I share the feeling of loss today with all those who knew him," she added.

Darragh O’Loughlin, CEO of the IHRB, said: “Michael was an exceptionally talented young rider who was always popular in the weighroom. 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.”

The IHRB says the family of Michael O'Sullivan, who would have turned 25 next week, have expressed their gratefulness for all the support they have received, from the  local community and racing family, since his fall.

"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,” stated Dr Pugh.