Galopin Des Champs, the celebrated gelding who captured two Cheltenham Gold Cups and three Irish Gold Cups during his illustrious career, has died at the age of ten after suffering a severe leg injury on his farm. The tragedy was announced by his long‑time jockey, Ruby Walsh, who disclosed the heartbreaking news late on Tuesday evening. According to Walsh, the 10‑year‑old horse was found early in the morning with a serious wound to his near front leg. Vets were called to the scene immediately, but after conducting X‑rays they determined the damage was extensive and beyond repair.
"Sadly Galopin Des Champs suffered an injury in his field this morning and could not be saved," Walsh said in a statement to Racing TV. "He was checked a few times throughout the morning but late in the morning when I went to get him for exercise I found him with a severe injury, high up on his near front leg. He was attended to by our vets immediately but X‑rays revealed extensive unrepairable damage." The loss has struck the racing community hard, especially those who cared for him day after day.
Walsh paid tribute to the horse, noting that his short time with the Turley family—Greg, Audrey and Sarah—and Adam Connolly left a lasting imprint on their hearts. "He was a fabulous racehorse whose short time with us has left lots of broken hearts but none more so than those of Greg, Audrey and Sarah Turley and Adam Connolly who looked after him for so long. He will be sadly missed," the statement read. Galopin Des Champs' career was marked by remarkable achievements.
He first burst onto the scene with a victory in the 2020 Irish Gold Cup at Leopardstown, a race that signaled his potential as a staying chaser. He followed that triumph with two consecutive Cheltenham Gold Cup wins in 2021 and 2022, cementing his status as one of the modern greats of National Hunt racing. In addition to his Gold Cup successes, he added two more Irish Gold Cups to his résumé, showcasing his versatility and consistency across both British and Irish festivals. Beyond the trophies, the gelding was beloved for his calm temperament, professionalism in the paddock, and the partnership he forged with his jockeys, particularly Ruby Walsh, who rode him to many of his most memorable victories.
Their collaboration was often highlighted as a model of mutual trust and understanding, a bond that made their race‑day performances all the more compelling for fans worldwide. The circumstances surrounding his death underscore the inherent risks that even retired racehorses face while living out their post‑racing years on farms.
While Galopin Des Champs had been retired less than a week before the accident, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilant veterinary care and safe pasture management for equine athletes transitioning to a quieter life. Owners, trainers, and fellow jockeys have taken to social media to express their condolences. Many recalled the horse's indomitable spirit and his ability to rise to the occasion under pressure.
"He gave us moments we will never forget," one fan wrote, "and his legacy will live on in every Gold Cup story told for years to come." The Turley family, who had looked after Galopin Des Champs for an extended period, issued a heartfelt message thanking supporters for their outpouring of sympathy. They emphasized that while the horse's racing days are over, his memory will continue to inspire future generations of trainers, jockeys, and enthusiasts who admire the dedication required to reach the pinnacle of the sport.
In the wake of his passing, discussions have also emerged about the broader welfare of retired racehorses. Industry groups have highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at providing safe retirement homes, regular health checks, and appropriate pasture conditions to prevent similar tragedies. Galopin Des Champs' story, though sad, may help galvanize further efforts to protect the well‑being of horses once their competitive careers conclude. As the racing world mourns the loss of one of its brightest stars, Galopin Des Champs' legacy endures through his remarkable record, the affection of his caretakers, and the countless fans who cheered his name on race days.
His achievements will forever be etched in the annals of National Hunt history, reminding all that greatness, once achieved, leaves an indelible mark that transcends even the most unfortunate of endings.