Champion race horse Kauto Star has been put down after suffering a fall in a paddock.
The two-time Cheltenham Gold Cup winner suffered a number of number of fractures, including one to his spine, leaving him unable to stand, according to the Racing Post.
His owner, Clive Smith said that he was “devastated” at Kauto Star’s death.
Kauto Star won the Cheltenham Gold Cup twice
He explained: “He had been turned out in Laura's [Collett - rider] paddock, as has been done normally with him at this time for years, and he looks to have jumped something, and stumbled, we're not really sure, but he injured himself - and it became obvious it was serious.
"The vets at Valley Equine Hospital did all they could but it became increasingly apparent the injuries were too serious and that it was in the horse's interests to be put down.”
Many from the racing world tweeted their condolences, including his former trainer Paul Nicholls…
Some, however, used Kauto Star’s death to raise questions about animal welfare…
Kauto Star had retired in 2012 after winning over £2million.
He went on to a career in dressage, in which he he was ridden by Laura Collett.
She said: 'It's an honour and a privilege to have been involved with him.”