Classic hero Coroebus, winner of the 2,000 Guineas in May, suffered a fatal injury during the Prix du Moulin in France on Sunday.
Charlie Appleby's star colt was on the heels of the leaders when he fell about two furlongs from home in the Group One race at Longchamp. The horse had to be euthanised due to the extent of his injuries. His jockey William Buick managed to get to his feet and appeared unscathed.
The race was won by Ed Walker's mare Dreamloper who was partnered by Kieran Shoemark in the one-mile contest.
Shoemark was clear of the field and of any danger at the stage of Coroebus's fall and cruised to a comfortable five-and-a-half-length victory at 17-2.
Buick was stood down for the rest of the day but was said to be fine. Coroebus, who was the 21/10 favourite for the race, was regarded as one of the best recent winners of the QIPCO 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket in May.
In the first Classic of the Flat season, he was ridden by James Doyle and narrowly got the better of stablemate Native Trail. Coroebus followed up that victory with another Group One success in the St James's Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot in June when he beat Lusail by a head.
He was fifth to the brilliant Inspiral in the Prix Jacques le Marois at Deauville on August 14.
Speaking on the Godolphin website, Appleby paid tribute to Coroebus: "The whole team at Moulton Paddocks is deeply saddened by the passing of Coroebus and our deepest sympathies go to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed and everyone at Godolphin.
"It is very sad to see a great horse, who gave so much to racing, lose his life in this way. "Everyone took a lot of joy from his victories in the 2000 Guineas and at Royal Ascot.
"Most importantly, William Buick walked away and was fine afterwards."
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