The opening day of Glorious Goodwood 2025 was meant to be a celebration of equine excellence, but it was overshadowed by a devastating tragedy that left the racing world in mourning. Trueshan, a beloved nine-year-old stayer trained by Alan King and ridden by Hollie Doyle, suffered a fatal injury during the Al Shaqab Goodwood Cup, casting a somber shadow over the festival. This iconic horse, whose remarkable career spanned 35 races and amassed over £2 million in prize money, was more than just a champion—he was a fan favorite whose legacy will endure in the hearts of racing enthusiasts.

Trueshan’s journey was one of grit, glory, and an extraordinary bond with his jockey, Hollie Doyle. Purchased for 31,000gns at the Tattersalls Breeze-Up sale in 2018, the gelding defied expectations, rising to become one of the most celebrated stayers in recent memory. His career highlights include three Group 1 victories—two in the Prix du Cadran at Longchamp and one in the Goodwood Cup in 2021, where Doyle made history as the first female jockey to win the race. He also dominated the Long Distance Cup at Ascot, securing three consecutive wins from 2020 to 2022, often outpacing formidable rivals like Stradivarius and Coltrane. His 2022 Northumberland Plate victory, carrying a staggering 10st 8lb off an official mark of 120, remains one of the most impressive handicap performances in modern racing.

On that fateful Tuesday, July 29, 2025, Trueshan entered the Goodwood Cup for the fourth time, a 22-1 shot with a legion of supporters hoping for another glimpse of his brilliance. The two-mile Group 1 race was his 35th career start, a testament to his durability and love for the sport. But halfway through, disaster struck. As the field galloped uphill on the far side of the track, Trueshan misstepped, sustaining a fracture to his left hind pastern. Doyle, who had partnered him in 23 of his starts, quickly pulled him up, sensing something was gravely wrong. Despite immediate attention from the track’s veterinary team, the injury was deemed unrecoverable. Alan King, alongside veterinarians, made the heart-wrenching decision to put Trueshan down.

Hollie Doyle, visibly shaken, shared her grief with Sky Sports Racing: “He was a special, special horse. I’m just devastated.” Her words echoed the sentiments of fans and connections alike, who had grown to admire Trueshan not just for his victories but for his tenacity and charisma. James Given, the British Horseracing Authority’s director of equine welfare, addressed the tragedy on ITV Racing, emphasizing its unpredictability: “What happened unfortunately was just an accident, mid-race, in a straight line going up the hill. His left hind pastern broke and left him in a situation that wasn’t recoverable from.” Given extended his condolences to Trueshan’s connections, noting, “He’s been a stalwart, he’s been a firm friend, he’s been everything to them.”

The racing community was quick to honor Trueshan’s legacy. ITV Racing host Ed Chamberlin delivered a poignant tribute: “It’s just how cruel this sport can be. My heart absolutely goes out, not just to the owners and Alan King, but Cheryl Binner who led up Trueshan today. Cheryl will be devastated, Hollie Doyle will be absolutely gutted with the connection she had with this horse.” Chamberlin highlighted the duo’s remarkable partnership, noting that Doyle rode Trueshan to 10 of his 16 career wins, including triumphs across Europe and that unforgettable Northumberland Plate.

Trueshan’s appeal transcended the racetrack. His longevity—rare for a Flat horse—made him a household name among fans. Social media platforms, particularly X, buzzed with tributes. One user wrote, “Awful news. RIP Trueshan. Thoughts are with all the stable staff and connections of this legendary stayer.” Another simply stated, “Gutted….brilliant horse.” A third added, “Struggling to know what to say. Desperately upsetting. What a wonderful horse.” These reactions underscored the emotional connection fans felt with Trueshan, a horse whose performances were as much about heart as they were about speed.

Trueshan’s career was a masterclass in versatility. Trained in Wiltshire by Alan King, he thrived in top-tier staying contests, often requiring soft ground to showcase his best. His 2021 Goodwood Cup victory was a defining moment, not only for him but for Doyle, who became a trailblazer for women in racing. His two Prix du Cadran wins in 2021 and 2023 showcased his ability to compete on the international stage, while his 2023 Doncaster Cup triumph over Sweet William and Broome proved he could still dominate at nine years old. His final victory came in the 2024 Coral Marathon at Sandown, a fitting capstone to a storied career.

The Goodwood Cup itself was won by Scandinavia, trained by Aidan O’Brien, who edged out stablemate Illinois in a thrilling finish. Yet, as Racing Post noted, the victory was “tinged with tragedy.” Scandinavia’s rise to 7-4 favoritism for the St Leger on September 13 offered a glimmer of hope for the staying division, but the day belonged to Trueshan’s memory. Aidan O’Brien himself expressed sorrow, stating, “I’m so sorry for everyone involved,” capturing the shared grief across the racing community.

For Alan King and his team, Trueshan was more than a racehorse—he was a companion who brought joy and pride to the Barbury Lions and, later, the Singula Partnership. His ability to carry immense weight, outrun elite competition, and captivate audiences made him a rare gem. The Racing Post reflected on his impact: “A horse of immense class and beloved by many, not least Alan King and Hollie Doyle, his death cast a shadow over what should have been a joyous Goodwood Cup.”

As Glorious Goodwood continued, the absence of Trueshan was keenly felt. His story, however, is one of triumph, resilience, and an unbreakable bond with those who knew him best. For fans wondering what made Trueshan so special, it was his ability to defy the odds—whether carrying top weight or battling rivals like Stradivarius. For those who followed his journey, his loss is a reminder of the fragility of the sport and the profound connections it fosters.

Goodwood Racecourse issued a statement: “Goodwood can confirm that during the Al Shaqab Goodwood Cup Stakes, Trueshan sustained a fatal injury. Our heartfelt condolences are with all connections.” These words, simple yet profound, encapsulated the collective mourning. Trueshan’s legacy, however, will live on through the memories of his victories, the roar of the crowds, and the quiet moments shared with Doyle and his team. In a sport where heroes are fleeting, Trueshan was a constant, a horse who ran not just for glory but for the love of the race.