Italian jockey Stefano Cherchi has died following a fall in Australia final month.
The 23-year-old suffered a head harm and inside bleeding following a fall on Robert Quinn’s Hasime at Canberra Racecourse on March 20.
Cherchi moved to England as a youngster and had his first experience there aboard Casina Di Notte in August 2018, driving 106 winners within the UK.
The New South Wales Jockeys Affiliation posted on X: “With deep sadness, the Cherchi family have announced their beloved son Stefano passed away peacefully today.
“The household are very grateful for the love, prayers & messages despatched by the racing group internationally.”
Cherchi was largely based with trainer Marco Botti while in Britain and also rode for Saeed Bin Suroor and Amy Murphy.
‘Stefano will always be with us’
Botti said on X: “Immediately is a fully heartbreaking day for us all, however Stefano will all the time be with us.
“His charming character and smile can never be forgotten. Our thoughts are with the Cherchi family and his close friends.”
Jack Quinlan, steady jockey of Amy Murphy, mentioned: “I will miss your infectious smile and your heart of gold but most of all I will miss you.”
Australian-based Irish jockey Eoin Walsh additionally paid tribute to Cherchi, saying: “Back in October last year, Stefano and I spoke about moving over to Australia.
“‘F**ok it mate, let’s do it’ I want this dialog by no means occurred. The kindest man I’ve ever met and it has been an absolute pleasure babysitting you the previous couple of years. I will always remember you.”
The British Horseracing Authority added on X: “We’re heartbroken to listen to the information that Stefano Cherchi has died following a fall at Canberra Racecourse final 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 ideas are along with his associates, household, and everybody who has had the pleasure of working with him. The whole racing trade will likely be in mourning after the lack of such a proficient younger man.”