‘Rising star’ jockey Taiga Tsunoda dies aged 21 as heartbroken family say ‘the sadness will never heal’

A JOCKEY labelled a ‘rising star’ of the racing world has died aged 21 – as his heartbroken family say ‘the sadness will never heal’.

Taiga Tsunoda is believed to have died earlier this month while serving a ban for ‘serious misconduct’.

Racing in Japan has been plunged into mourning following the sudden death of 21-year-old jockey Taiga TsunodaAlamy

A prodigy with the sport at his feet, Tsunoda, who came from a racing family, had already racked up 90 wins after making his debut in March 2022.

But he was reportedly suspended earlier this month after driving his car onto Hakodate racecourse in Japan, leaving tyre tracks over the surface.

Circumstances surrounding his tragic death remain unclear.

But in a statement, his father Koichi said: “Taiga was supported and encouraged by many people.

“He had only just begun his career as a jockey, realising his childhood dream, so it is a great pity.

“The sadness will never heal, but we will continue to work together as a family.”

While his brother Yamato wrote on social media: “It’s all so sudden I can’t wrap my head around it.

“With the support of many friends and family I hope we can recover and move on with our lives.

“I will continue to do my best for my brother, so please support me.”

Legendary Japanese rider Yutaka Take was among the many trying to express their shock at Tsunoda’s death.

He said: “It was a sudden event and we have yet to process it. We are filled with sadness.”

While fellow rider Seina Imamura posted photos of them together and wrote: “My dear friend has passed away.

“I wanted to keep working hard, together with him, and spend more time with him.

“It’s too soon. But I know you don’t want to see everyone so sad, so I’m going to take some time away to heal.”

Tsunoda’s passing comes four months after fellow Japanese rider Kota Fujioka died aged 35.