Tragedy struck the Breeders’ Cup Turf at Del Mar as one of Britain’s top contenders, **Jayarebe**, collapsed and died shortly after completing the £3.6 million race.
Jayarebe, who had made a name for himself with a notable victory at Royal Ascot in June, was a hopeful for trainer Brian Meehan’s third win in this prestigious 1m4f event.
The three-year-old colt ran well, finishing seventh, only five and a half lengths behind **Rebel’s Romance**—the Godolphin horse trained by **Charlie Appleby** and ridden by **William Buick**. Rebel’s Romance clinched his second consecutive Turf win, following his 2022 victory at Del Mar.
Jayarebe’s tragic incident occurred just after he crossed the finish line. While pulling up, he suddenly collapsed under jockey **Sean Levey**. On-course veterinarians rushed to his aid and transported him in a horse ambulance, but despite their immediate attention, Jayarebe did not survive.
According to **Dr. Al Ruggles**, the Breeders’ Cup veterinarian, it’s suspected that Jayarebe experienced a cardiac event, a rare but possible occurrence in racehorses, particularly those in top training form.
Dr. Ruggles expressed condolences to all connected to Jayarebe, noting that such events are challenging to predict and difficult to conclusively identify, even with a post-mortem examination.
The race itself was a showcase for Rebel’s Romance, who has since become an international racing sensation. Over the past year, he’s claimed victories across the globe, from **Qatar** and **Dubai** to **Hong Kong** and **Germany**.
Starting from a wide draw in post 11, Buick managed to position Rebel’s Romance towards the front. The horse accelerated impressively in the straight, fending off challenges from Japan’s Rousham Park and Shahryar.
