Willie Mullins: 'There is a real sadness over the whole of Closutton today'

Michael O'Sullivan onboard Al Boum at Willie Mullins' Yard, Closutton in 2018. Photo: ©INPHO/Bryan Keane

Willie Mullins has paid tribute to "natural rider" Michael O'Sullivan. The Cheltenham Festival-winning rider shot to prominence in 2023 and had since been regularly called up by Mullins to partner some of his superstars, with the duo enjoying big-race success with Embassy Gardens at Tramore on New Year's Day.

O'Sullivan finished second on his final ride for Mullins at Thurles on the afternoon of his devastating injuries. The Closutton handler remembered a "very modest, friendly and understated" man.