Galopin Des Champs, Two-Time Cheltenham Gold Cup Winner, Dies After Retirement

Galopin Des Champs, a celebrated two-time winner of the Cheltenham Gold Cup, has died at the age of 10, less than a week after being retired from racing.

The horse suffered a severe injury in his field and could not be saved, as confirmed by former jockey Ruby Walsh in a statement to RacingTV. Galopin Des Champs had an impressive racing career, winning three Irish Gold Cups, two Savills Chases, and a Punchestown Gold Cup, alongside his Cheltenham victories in 2023 and 2024.

Trainer Willie Mullins announced the horse's retirement, citing that he could not perform at the level expected of him. Walsh noted that the horse was checked multiple times before the injury was discovered, which was found to be extensive and unrepairable. The loss of Galopin Des Champs has deeply affected those who cared for him, including his long-time handlers.