Apprentice jockey Izzy Neale has tragically died at the age of 22 following a devastating fall during Sunday’s horse racing meeting at Warren in regional New South Wales.
Neale reportedly lost consciousness after being thrown from her horse, Marnoo, near the 400-metre mark of the Warren Shire Cotton Cup (1600m).
Fellow jockey Diego Montes de Oca was also unseated from his mount, Shadow Dane, during the race. Racing NSW officials later confirmed that Montes de Oca had sustained a suspected broken foot.
Apprentice jockey Izzy Neale has tragically died at the age of 22 following a devastating fall during Sunday’s horse racing meeting at Warren in regional New South Wales.
Neale and fellow jockey Diego Montes de Oca were both transported to Dubbo Hospital after the incident, with Neale placed on life support due to the severity of her injuries.
Despite the tireless efforts of medical staff, the young jockey could not be saved. She passed away on Tuesday evening, surrounded by her loved ones.
“It is with deep sadness and broken hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Izzy, surrounded by her closest family and friends,” her family said in a heartbreaking statement.
Neale reportedly lost consciousness after being thrown from her horse, Marnoo, during the Warren Shire Cotton Cup.
“Izzy rode horses before she could walk. Her love of horses was a lifelong passion that, more recently, had grown into a love of racing,” her family said.
“Through organ donation, Izzy will give others the chance of life, bringing some comfort to our family amid this devastating loss.
“We are deeply grateful for the love, kindness and support shown to Izzy and our family by her friends, the racing community and everyone who has been by our side during this heartbreaking time.”
Neale recorded an impressive 88 victories from 699 career starts during her promising career as an apprentice jockey.
“We would like to thank Racing NSW and the NSW Jockeys Association for their care, compassion and support during this incredibly difficult time,” her family continued.
“We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the medical staff who cared for Izzy with such compassion.
“As we come to terms with our loss, we ask that our family’s privacy be respected.
“Izzy was dearly loved and will forever be in our hearts.”
The 22-year-old had competed in four races earlier on Sunday, including a fourth-place finish aboard Tampa Bay in the opening race of the meeting.
Following the devastating incident involving Neale and fellow rider Diego Montes de Oca, officials abandoned the final race at Warren. Tragically, Neale’s horse, Marnoo, also had to be euthanized after sustaining an injury to its left front leg.
Heartfelt tributes have continued to pour in from across the horse racing community, with fellow jockeys, racing professionals and fans expressing their grief and offering support to Neale’s family.
“Such tragic news. Thoughts go out to Izzy’s family and everyone who knew her,” racing analyst Brad Davidson said.
Neale had competed in four races earlier on Sunday, including a fourth-place finish aboard Tampa Bay in the opening race of the meeting.
The tragic news of her passing prompted an outpouring of grief from across the Australian horse racing community, with former jockeys, racing journalists and presenters paying heartfelt tribute to the 22-year-old.
“Absolutely devastating. Thinking of all her family, friends and colleagues,” former jockey Kayla Nisbett wrote.
“Unimaginable tragedy. Thoughts with Izzy’s family and friends, and the wider racing community,” racing reporter Trent Masenhelder shared.
Sky Racing presenter Lewis Willoughby also expressed his sorrow, writing: “Properly devastating. Thoughts to her family and friends. RIP.”
Despite the best efforts of medical staff, Neale succumbed to her injuries on Tuesday evening, surrounded by her family and loved ones.
Thoroughbred trainer Tracey Bartley joined those mourning the young jockey, writing: “Devastating. Much love to Izzy’s family and friends.”
Neale’s brother, Tommy, also shared an emotional tribute on social media following her death, expressing his heartbreak over the sudden loss of his sister.
“Izzy, I can’t believe what’s happened, aye … didn’t expect to be having meetings with doctors about pulling your life support,” he wrote.
Izzy Neale celebrates victory aboard It’s A Tata in Race 2, the TAB Highway Handicap, at Rosehill Gardens in Sydney, Australia, on July 4, 2026.
In a heartbreaking social media tribute, Neale’s brother Tommy expressed his deep love for his younger sister and his grief over their lost time together.
“Just know I love you so much and you’ll always be my lil baby sister; you were my best friend, and we always were so close.
“I dunno how I’m gonna deal with this. I’m so sorry I spent years in jail and didn’t spend much time together before this accident.
“I can’t even comprehend how I feel … till we meet again, sis. gonna miss you so much!!”
