The 24-year-old was riding Wee Charlie for trainer Gerard O’Leary and was one of three fallers at the final fence in the two-mile Racing Again Handicap Chase.
The rest of the meeting was abandoned as the air ambulance took O’Sullivan to hospital.
It was later confirmed that he was being treated in the intensive care unit at Cork University Hospital, where he remained.
Jockey Michael O’Sullivan dies following race fall
Early on Sunday (February 16) morning, the IHRB released a statement confirming O’Sullivan had died.
Dr Jennifer Pugh, IHRB chief medical officer, said in the statement: “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 Cork University Hospital.
“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.
“I have had the privilege of knowing Michael through his amateur and professional career and his dedication, modesty and kind nature always made him a pleasure to be around.
“Michael’s success and his humility will have inspired many and I share the feeling of loss today with all those who knew him.
“Michael’s family would like to reiterate their gratefulness for all the support they have received in the last couple of days and express their appreciation to the local community and racing family. The O’Sullivan family have asked for privacy at this time.”
On behalf of the O’Sullivan family, it is with profound sadness that the IHRB confirms the passing of Michael O’Sullivan pic.twitter.com/LIo58toZpy
— IHRB (@ihrb_ie) February 16, 2025
O’Sullivan started off his riding career on the point-to-point circuit and was crowned champion under-21 rider in 2019.
His first win under rules came at Cork in 2018 when he guided Wilcosdiana, trained by his uncle, Eugene, to a 47-length victory in a hunter chase, and he turned professional in September 2022.
In all, O’Sullivan rode 90 winners in Ireland and five in Britain under rules, with his most recent big-race success coming aboard Embassy Gardens for champion trainer Willie Mullins in the Grade Three New Year’s Day Chase at Tramore.
RECOMMENDED READING:
Darragh O’Loughlin, CEO of the 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.”
As a mark of respect, the fixture at Punchestown on Sunday and the Point-to-Point fixtures have been cancelled.
