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3rd April 2024
12:21pm BST
Italian jockey, Stefano Cherchi, has died following a fall in Australia.
The native of Sardinia was racing in Canberra two weeks ago when he suffered a fall and was rushed to hospital with a head injury and internal bleeding.
Cherchi was put into an induced coma in a Canberra hospital intensive care unit. Now news has emerged that Cherchi has succumbed to his injuries and died, reports the Irish Daily Mirror.
A post from NSW Jockeys reads: "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."
Cherchi's fall was labelled a 'freak accident' after his horse, Hasime, came down in an incident which involved another two horses.
Although the other two horses and riders all avoided injury, Cherchi was attended to by medics on the track for an hour before he was rushed to hospital. His parents and girlfriend, Brittany Fallon, the daughter of former jockey Kieran Fallon, flown to be by his bedside.
Cherchi had rode over 100 winners in Britain during his time in Newmarket and had achieved two wins in Australia since January.
Marco Botti Racing wrote: "Today is an absolutely heartbreaking day for us all, but Stefano will always be with us.
"His charming character and smile can never be forgotten. Our thoughts are with the Cherchi family and his close friends. Rest In Peace."
The Irish Field wrote: "The Irish Field team are saddened by the news of Stefano Cherchi's passing.
"Our deepest sympathies go out to his family and friends and we wish them the best in this difficult time. Rest in peace Stefano."
The British Horse Racing Authority penned: "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."
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