Japanese jockey Kosuke Matsumoto has tragically passed away following a training accident. 

The 43-year-old was riding at Sonoda Racecourse in Amagasaki City when the incident occurred around 5:50 a.m. According to the Hyogo Prefectural Horse Racing Association, a horse returning to the stables bolted, colliding with Matsumoto’s mount and another horse.

The collision caused all three riders to fall. Matsumoto was rendered unconscious and transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Sadly, he succumbed to his injuries later that day.

The other two riders involved suffered only minor injuries.

In Matsumoto’s honor, a moment of silence was observed at the start of the track's three-day race meeting on Tuesday.

Local authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. They confirmed Matsumoto was in cardiopulmonary arrest upon arrival at the hospital and never regained consciousness.

Matsumoto had a respected career on Japan’s National Association of Racing (NAR) circuit, recording 261 victories. The NAR oversees tracks managed by local governments, in contrast to Japan's major tracks, which are operated by the Japan Racing Association (JRA).