The Grand National is among the most famous and most-watched horse races globally, viewed by about 800 million people worldwide. However, questions are being raised once again as to whether horse racing should be banned after another horse tragically died at the Grand National. Dating back to 1829, racing over fences at Aintree Racecourse has evolved over the years, proving to be one of the most challenging tests over distance for jockeys and horses alike.
Earlier today, Celebre D’Allen’s ‘heartbroken’ trainers confirmed the horse’s death days after he fell in the Grand National. The horse was one of two to suffer nasty falls, prompting immediate veterinary assessment on the track. The Liverpool meeting may evoke nostalgia and excitement for many, but it also provokes criticism and controversy. In the past 25 years, 67 horses have died during the three-day meeting, nearly 15 of which occurred between 2000 and 2022 and many more have been injured.
So what do you think? Vote in our poll and join the debate in the comments section. Can’t see the poll below? Click here
Trained in partnership by Philip Hobbs and Johnson White, 13-year-old Celebre D’Allen was a 125-1 shot under Irishman Micheal Nolan and was pulled up after the final fence before collapsing on the racecourse.
After receiving treatment on the course, he walked into the horse ambulance and was taken to the racecourse stables for further assessment.
Celebre D’Allen remained at Aintree overnight on Saturday for further veterinary examinations. And what seemed like positive news emerged on Sunday morning, as Hobbs and White posted a video of the horse on their official X account, captioned: “Celebre D’Allen bright & breezy this morning after running so well in the Grand National.”
But the horse has now died after his condition “deteriorated significantly” on Monday night.
Trainers Philip Hobbs and Johnson White said: “We’re heartbroken to share that Celebre D’Allen has passed away. He received the very best treatment by the veterinary teams and was improving. However, he deteriorated significantly last night and could not be saved. He was a wonderful horse and we will all miss him greatly.”
It was also revealed that Nolan would face a 10-day ban after an investigation questioned his judgement in continuing to ride Celebre d’Allen after the penultimate obstacle had been jumped.
In 2023, The Jockey Club introduced several changes aimed at ensuring the safety and welfare of horses and jockeys in a bid to reduce the number of fallers and injuries.
Changes included moving the start time of the race from 5.15pm to 4pm, while also reducing the field from 40 to 34.
The first fence was also shifted 60 yards closer to the start, while there was no parade of the field and the height of the 11th fence was lowered from 5ft to 4ft 10in.