Sir Alex Ferguson’s horse Kalif Du Berlais dies in Kempton fall | Racing | Sport
The team of Paul Nicholls has been left devastated by the tragic death of stable star Kalif Du Berlais, following a fall at Kempton on Saturday. The six-year-old horse – co-owned by legendary Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson – was competing in the Grade Two Coral Silviniaco Conti Chase when he unseated jockey Harry Cobden towards the end of the race.
ITV Racing’s coverage confirmed the sad news of the horse’s passing. His death marked the second tragedy of the day, following the earlier loss of Wertpol during a Juvenile Hurdle race at Kempton.
In a statement, ITV Racing expressed: “We are deeply saddened to report the loss of Wertpol and Kalif Du Berlais. In both instances, the horses were immediately attended to by expert veterinary teams after sustaining injuries during their respective races but sadly could not be saved. Our heartfelt condolences and thoughts are with their connections during this difficult time.”
Fans took to X to express their sorrow over the double tragedy for the sport. One commented: “Horrific day all round for National Hunt Racing.”
A second added: “Condolences to all connections of Wertpol. Beautiful and talented horse suffering a horrific accident.”
And a third user remarked: “Very sad to see Wertpol’s fatal fall at Kempton RIP.”
“That wertpol fall was horrendous, be jesus this game can be a hard watch sometimes,” a fourth put.
Kalif Du Berlais has competed in 11 races, securing six victories including the Grade 1 Maghull Novices’ Chase at the Aintree Grand National meeting in April 2025, where it bagged over £67,000 in prize money.
The horse also triumphed in the Grade 2 Adonis Juvenile Hurdle in February 2024 and put on a stellar performance at Cheltenham on New Year’s Day 2025.
Hart of the South Racing only purchased Wertpol in October of the previous year, with trainer Harry Derham and jockey Paul O’Brien guiding the three-year-old to victory by winning a juvenile hurdle race at Taunton on December 30.
