RACING powerhouse Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum has died at the age of 75.
Sheikh Hamdan was deputy ruler of Dubai and a hugely successful owner-breeder across the globe.
His famous blue-and-white colours have struck at the highest level, carried by some of the best horses on the Flat in recent decades.
The Sheikh’s Shadwell breeding operation operates around the world with a base in Newmarket.
On Wednesday morning, Sheikh Hamdan’s younger brother Sheikh Mohammed posted on Twitter: “We belong to God and to Him we shall return … May God have mercy on you, my brother, my support and my companion.”
Among the best of Sheikh Hamdan’s many Group 1 winners, he was most widely associated with 1989 Derby and 2000 Guineas winner Nashwan, the brilliant 1990 dual Classic-winning filly Salsabil and outstanding sprinters Dayjur and Battaash.
Others to have carried his silks included Oaks and King George heroine Taghrooda, another Derby victor in Erhaab and even a winner of the Melbourne Cup in the shape of At Talaq, who triumphed at Flemington in 1986.
Sheikh Mohammed’s Godolphin operation was among the first to pay tribute.
A Tweet on the official account read: “Everyone at Godolphin is deeply saddened to hear of the death of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid al Maktoum.
“A great loss to Dubai and our sport. He was one of the greatest owner breeders of modern times. Our deepest condolences to His Family and all @ShadwellStud.”
Newbury Racecourse tweeted: “We are saddened to learn of the passing of Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
“A passionate owner and breeder of so many great superstars and a huge supporter of racing on a global scale including Newbury Racecourse.”
The effect the news will have on the industry will unravel in coming days, but the news comes only three months after fellow all-conquering Flat owner Prince Khalid Abdullah passed away.
His colours were worn by the likes of Dancing Brave, Frankel and Enable.
