By Brian Sheerin
Racing has been rocked by the news that jockey Stefano Cherchi, 23, has died from the injuries sustained in a fall at Canberra, Australia, two weeks ago. The former apprentice to Marco Botti had been riding Hasime in the third race at Canberra when his mount fell.
A statement released on Wednesday morning by NSW Jockeys on X, previously known as Twitter, read, “With deep sadness, the Cherchi family have announced their beloved son Stefano passed away peacefully today.
“The family are very grateful for the love, prayers & messages sent by the racing community across the world.”
Born in Italy, Cherchi moved to England as a teenager and had his first ride there aboard Casina Di Notte (Ire) in August 2018. He rode 106 winners in the intervening seasons before relocating to Australia at the beginning of this year.
An emotional Botti offered up a heartfelt tribute to his fellow countryman, who joined the Newmarket-based handler at just 16 years of age.
Marco Botti | Tattersalls
Botti said, “I feel like I have lost a son, to be honest. Stefano started as an apprentice jockey here. He came to us when he was 16 and was chasing his dream to be a jockey. From the time he has been with us, everybody just loved him. Everybody always had something nice to say about Stefano. He has always been a very charming guy–obviously very talented as well.”
He added, “I remember before he left for Australia, he came in to the yard and we had a chat and he was so excited to go there and try to enhance his career there. Obviously we have kept in touch with him and were always cheering him on when he rode winners in Australia. He had a couple of winners recently and we were all delighted for him. Things were starting to really pick up for him.
“To get this tragedy, we are completely devastated. We knew two weeks ago that things were not looking good but you always hope and pray for a miracle. When we heard the news this morning in the yard, everyone was just completely devastated. Like I said, I feel like I have lost a son. It is a very sad day.”
Botti has organised a GoFundMe page as a gesture of respect and support to Cherchi's family. Donations can be made here.
Cherchi struck gold four times for David Loughnane, who said on X, “We are all completely devastated with the loss of Stefano Cherchi.
“He was an absolute gentleman and a pleasure to have known and worked with. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.”
In a statement, the British Horseracing Authority said, “We are heartbroken to hear the news that Stefano Cherchi has died following a fall at Canberra racecourse last month.
“Stefano rode over 100 winners in Britain before moving to Australia, and the high esteem in which he was held around the world is clear to see.
“Our thoughts are with his friends, family, and everyone who has had the pleasure of working with him. The entire racing industry will be in mourning after the loss of such a talented young man.”
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