Celebre d’Allen, a 13-year-old horse and the oldest participant in the 2025 Grand National sadly died two days after collapsing at the end of the race. Though he initially showed signs of recovery after being treated and moved to the stables. But his condition worsened on Monday night and he passed away on Tuesday.
The horse collapsed after the final fence. Jockey Micheal Nolan continued riding despite the horse visibly struggling which resulted in a 10 day suspension by race stewards. However the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) stated no further punishment would follow. They said it is impossible to directly blame the jockey for the horse’s death.
Celebre d’Allen had cleared all health checks before the race and veterinary staff had cleared him as fit to run.
The BHA plans a post mortem and full review of the incident.
The race was won by Patrick Mullins on Nick Rockett. Mullins also received an eight day ban for overusing the whip.
This marks the second fatality at the 2025 Grand National festival. Animal rights groups have criticized the sport especially allowing a horse of Celebre d’Allen’s age to race.
Welfare organizations like World Horse Welfare expressed sorrow and stressed the need for safety improvements.
