Italian jockey Stefano Cherchi has died aged 23 from injuries he sustained in a horrifying fall in Australia last month.
He was riding in Canberra on March 20 when his horse fell in the one-mile race and brought down two other runners.
The other jockeys involved were able to walk away with bumps and bruises, but Cherchi was taken away in an ambulance.
It was later revealed that he suffered a head injury and internal bleeding from the fall.
Stefano Cherchi has died aged 23
PA
The New South Wales Jockeys Association confirmed Cherchi’s death in a statemant that read: “With deep sadness, the Cherchi family have announced their beloved son Stefano passed away peacefully today.
“The family are very grateful for the love, prayers & messages sent by the racing community across the world.”
Fellow jockey Eoin Walsh, who moved out to Australia with Cherchi posted an emotional tribute on social media to the 23-year-old after learning of his death.
He wrote: “Back in October last year, Stefano and I spoke about moving over to Australia ‘f*** it mate, let’s do it’.
“I wish this conversation never happened. The kindest guy I’ve ever met and it’s been an absolute pleasure babysitting you the last few years. I’ll never forget you.”
Cherchi moved to England as a teenager and ended up riding over 100 winners in his career.
The Sardinian rider spent most of his time in the UK with trainer Marco Botti, but also rode for Saeed Bin Suroor and Amy Murphy.
Botti said on X: “Today is an absolutely heartbreaking day for us all, but Stefano will always be with us.
Stefano Cherchi rode 106 winners in the UK
PA
“His charming character and smile can never be forgotten.
“Our thoughts are with the Cherchi family and his close friends.”
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Stefano Cherchi made his debut in England in 2018
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The British Horseracing Authority posted on X: “We are heartbroken to hear the news that Stefano Cherchi has died following a fall at Canberra Racecourse last month.
“Stefano rode over 100 winners in Britain before moving to Australia, and the high esteem in which he was held around the world is clear to see.
“Our thoughts are with his friends, family, and everyone who has had the pleasure of working with him. The entire racing industry will be in mourning after the loss of such a talented young man.”
