Australian apprentice jockey Izzy Neale has died at the age of 22 after sustaining severe injuries during a horse racing event in New South Wales.
Neale died on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, two days after falling from her horse during the Warren Shire Cotton Cup at Warren Racecourse on Sunday.
According to Reuters, the young rider was rushed to hospital in critical condition following the accident but later died, surrounded by family and friends.
Jockey suffers serious injuries during race
Neale was competing in the 1,600-metre Cotton Cup aboard a horse named Marnoo when the incident occurred near the 400-metre mark.
The horse fell as the competitors approached the final stretch, throwing Neale to the ground.
The 22-year-old reportedly sustained serious head injuries and lost consciousness following the fall.
Medical personnel attended to her at the racecourse before she was airlifted to Dubbo Hospital for emergency treatment.
Despite efforts by medical professionals, she remained in critical condition until her death on Tuesday.
Her horse, Marnoo, also sustained a severe leg injury and was subsequently euthanised.
Another jockey, Diego Montes de Oca, was thrown from his horse during the same race.
He sustained a foot injury but was later discharged from hospital after receiving treatment.
Family confirms Neale’s death
In a statement released through Racing New South Wales, Neale’s family confirmed her passing and expressed appreciation to those who supported them following the accident.
“Izzy rode horses before she could walk,” the family said.
They explained that her love for horses began during childhood and later developed into a passion for professional racing.
The family also disclosed that Neale would donate her organs, giving other people an opportunity to live.
They expressed gratitude to the medical professionals who cared for her, Racing NSW, the NSW Jockeys Association and members of the racing community.
“Izzy was dearly loved and will forever be in our hearts,” the statement added.
Racing community mourns young jockey
Neale was regarded as a promising talent in Australian horse racing, having recorded 88 victories during her professional career.
She secured her first win in February 2024 aboard Scruff’s Magic at Condobolin.
Her career subsequently progressed, with victories at different racecourses across New South Wales.
According to the Associated Press, Neale had participated in 699 races during her career.
Following Sunday’s accident, Racing NSW abandoned the final race at Warren and postponed Monday’s scheduled meeting at Scone.
Racing Victoria also issued a statement mourning Neale’s death and expressing condolences to her family and colleagues.
The organisation described the tragedy as a reminder of the risks jockeys face while participating in competitive horse racing.
The Australian racing community has continued to pay tribute to Neale, remembering her passion for horses and contributions to the sport.
Her family has requested privacy as they mourn her death.
