King Kyprios Retired Following Aggravation of Old Injury

Kyprios, the exceptional stayer trained by Aidan O’Brien, retires from racing as one of the modern greats of the staying division.

Coolmore Stud announced the retirement of Kyprios, saying an “aggravation of an old ringbone lesion” has led to his retirement, but the stayer is “currently sound and doing well”.

Bred by the Niarchos family and campaigned by the Coolmore partners, Kyprios combined stamina, class, and heart in equal measure – a rare blend that captivated racing fans across the globe.

His finest hour came in 2022 when he dominated the staying ranks, winning the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot with a powerful, determined display. That victory was the highlight of an unbeaten season that also included the Goodwood Cup, Irish St. Leger, and Prix du Cadran – where he put up a near 20-length demolition job, cementing his reputation as Europe’s premier stayer.

Trained at Ballydoyle under the masterful guidance of O’Brien, Kyprios overcame injury setbacks to return in 2023, showing immense resilience and class. His courage on the track matched his flawless temperament off it – a true professional and fan favorite.

Following a narrow defeat on QIPCO British Champions Day in 2023, Kyprios returned in 2024 with an unblemished record of seven wins from seven starts, where he clinched a second Ascot Cup. He went on to win the Goodwood Cup, Irish St Leger and Prix du Cadran, all for the second time. His season finished with a storming victory in the QIPCO British Champions Long Distance Cup.

As he heads into a well-deserved retirement, Kyprios leaves behind a legacy of brilliance, tenacity, and unrelenting dominance. His name now sits comfortably alongside the great stayers of history, and his memory will live on in the hearts of racing fans forever.