Leading Sire Wootton Bassett Dies Age 17 in Australia

Wootton Bassett, a leading sire renowned for producing multiple Group 1 winners, has died at age 17 at Coolmore Australia due to complications from choke and acute pneumonia. Despite intensive veterinary care overseen by Dr. Nathan Slovis, he could not be saved. The British-bred stallion was undefeated as a two-year-old, winning prestigious races such as the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere before retiring to stud, where he achieved significant success. Initially standing in France, Wootton Bassett was acquired by Coolmore in 2020 and became a top European sire, leading in prize money and stakes winners, with notable progeny including Almanzor, Camille Pissarro, Henri Matisse, Whirl, and Al Riffa. His stud fee had risen to a record level in Australia, reflecting his value, and he left a strong legacy with multiple crops of high-performing young horses still racing. His sudden death leaves a considerable void in the breeding industry, especially for Coolmore's elite mares.