What happened to Michael O'Sullivan? Tributes pour in as Irish jockey dies at 24

The death of Irish Jockey, Michael O'Sullivan, who has been in an induced coma, has left the racing community in mourning. The news comes days after the 24-year-old, fell from his horse during a race and had to be airlifted to the Cork University Hospital.

In a statement posted on social media on Sunday, Dr Jennifer Pugh, the Chief Medical Officer of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB), announced the passing of the young jockey.

“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 hospital."

She further added:

“Michael’s family took the decision to donate his organs at this incredibly difficult time, but in doing so made a choice that will make a real difference to the lives of other patients and their families.”

Darragh O'Loughlin, the CEO of 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.

Tributes pour in for Michael O'Sullivan

Fans and well-wishers have flooded social media with heartfelt tributes, expressing their grief over Michael O'Sullivan's tragic passing.

Simon Harries, the Deputy Prime Minister or Tánaiste of Ireland also paid tribute to Michael in a post on X ( formerly Twitter).

"Such sad news this morning. I know people across our country are thinking of the family of Michael O’Sullivan this morning and of the wider racing family. An incredible talent taken so young. Keeping his family in my prayers at this extraordinarily painful time for them all."

Many remember Michael O'Sullivan as a talented rider who left a lasting impact on the racing community.

"I think his legacy will be that he was an inspiration to a lot of the younger lads coming behind that somebody with the talent like his can, given the opportunities, rise to the top. I think that's a brilliant legacy for him to have." said trainer Barry Connell.

Fellow Jockey, Harry Skelton took to his social media to pay tribute to Michael O'Sullivan.

"Absolutely devastating news to hear Michael O’Sullivan has passed away. My thoughts are with his family, friends. When you go that door to race you all want to come back in it together, his peg now sits empty for all the wrong reasons, thinking of all the Irish weighing room." said the National Hunt Jockey.

Renowned horse racing blogger, Stephen R Power shared his condolences:

"Rest in peace Michael O'Sullivan. It was a pleasure meeting you in Chantilly. I loved our chat on track and in the Irish pub in town.You were full of life, a great character with charm and intelligence.God bless you, my deepest thoughts with your loved ones at this time.

Horse racing pundit, Kevin Blake expressed heartfelt condolences:

"How utterly cruel life can be. It is hard to comprehend what Michael’s family, friends and colleagues are going through. RIP Michael O’Sullivan." said Blake.

Fans have also sent their tributes

"Racehorses are majestic animals but they are also incredibly dangerous animals that weigh half a ton. Anyone who loves and rides horses faces risks every single time they get on one. Tragically Michael O’Sullivan paid the ultimate price but riding racehorses was his life." said one user.

"Here at Larkhill Racecourse, a minute's silence was held before racing so that the UK point-to-point family could remember Michael O'Sullivan, his family, friends and colleagues." another user said.

"Sending our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Michael O’Sullivan. Rest in peace." tweeted Gordon Elliot, a Royal Ascot winning trainer.

"The tragic loss of the supremely talented Michael O'Sullivan at the age of just 24 is a reminder of the risks they take for the job they love. Sending condolences to everyone that loved him most. RIP" tweeted another fan.

Michael O'Sullivan was regarded as one of the most promising rising talents within the racing community. The young rider, who turned professional in September 2022, won three Grade One victories, with the most notable win being his triumph in the 2023 Supreme Novices' Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.

Michael O'Sullivan's family has a long-standing connection to the sport, with multiple members of his family having been involved in the sport at some point. The young racer is survived by his parents and brother.