Horse racing is in mourning following the death of young Irish jockey Michael O’Sullivan and several meets today have been cancelled. The rising star has died aged only 24 after a horror fall at Thurles Racecourse on February 6.

O’Sullivan was one of several fallers in a tragic incident. He was airlifted to Cork University Hospital where he remained in intensive care. The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB) confirmed his death this morning (Sunday), with O’Sullivan said to have been surrounded by his family.

Several events are being cancelled as a mark of respect to O’Sullivan. Punchestown Racecourse has called off a meeting today, while three point-to-point events across the country have been halted.

Punchestown wrote on X: “It is with deep sadness that we share this announcement. Punchestown will not race today as a mark of respect to Michael O’Sullivan who has passed.

“His family, friends and racing colleagues are in our thoughts and prayers. A very sad day. RIP.”

The Irish National Hunt Steeplechase CLG added: “As a mark of respect to Michael O'Sullivan, the three Point to Point fixtures scheduled to take place today have been cancelled. Our thoughts and prayers go to all of the O'Sullivan family at this difficult time.”

O’Sullivan’s death was confirmed by the IHRB this morning.

A statement read: "On behalf of the O'Sullivan family, it is with profound sadness that the IHRB confirms the passing of Michael O'Sullivan. The directors and staff of the IHRB wish to extend their sincere condolences to Michael's family, partner, friends, his colleagues, in the weighroom and the wider racing community at this time."

O’Sullivan was highly thought of by several top trainers. Willie Mullins and Gordon Elliott are said to have checked in on his progress, with O’Sullivan riding an Elliott-trained horse to victory at Cheltenham in 2023.

That was one of two winners on the opening day of the festival that year.

O’Sullivan’s father, William, also rode to success at Cheltenham in 1991, winning the Foxhunters. Michael’s younger brother, Alan, is a talented amateur jockey.

Trainer Tony Mullins, brother of Willie, wrote on X: “Michael was a lovely person and he also had a massive talent. He will always be remembered as a winner. RIP.”

Fergal O’Brien added: “The news about Michael O’Sullivan is truly heartbreaking and our thoughts go out to his family and friends. Devastating.”