Melbourne Cup topweight Anthony Van Dyck has sadly been humanely euthanised after breaking down during the running of the race.

Racing Victoria Executive General Manager - Integrity Services, Jamie Stier, released the following statement 40 minutes after the race: "It is with sadness that we confirm that Anthony Van Dyck had to be humanely euthanised after sustaining a fractured fetlock during the running of the Melbourne Cup at Flemington.

"The horse received immediate veterinary care, however, he was unable to be saved due to the nature of the injury sustained.

"Our sympathies are extended to the owners of Anthony Van Dyck, trainer Aidan O'Brien and all his staff, who cared for the horse and are greatly saddened by their loss."

Moments after winning the Melbourne Cup, Twilight Payment's part-owner Nick Williams paid tribute to Anthony Van Dyck's connections following their loss.

"I want to send out all my sympathies to the team at Coolmore," Williams said.

"They put a huge amount of money into our sport. They are great sports, they go to every dance, take their best horses everywhere in the world.

“To have this bad luck with such a good horse, Anthony Van Dyck. I just feel terrible for them.

“To the Magniers, Smiths, Tabor families and of course the O’Briens, I feel terribly sorry for you.”

Stier explained that a fatality report will now be prepared by the RV Integrity Services team as is standard practice.

"The fatality report gives consideration to the circumstances of the incident and any potential learnings to assist in the prevention of similar injuries in the future," he said.

"The report will include the findings of a post-mortem, which will now be conducted by the University of Melbourne Veterinary Clinic and we expect it will be several weeks before we have a completed report for consideration."

Hugh Bowman, rider of Anthony Van Dyck, was uninjured in the incident.

The Victoria Racing Club also released a statement following Anthony Van Dyck's passing: "The Victoria Racing Club (VRC) extends its condolences to the owners, trainer Aiden O'Brien and his team who cared for Anthony Van Dyck and are saddened by their loss.

"We would like to thank the track and veterinary staff for their prompt and humane care of the horse.

"The Club remains totally committed to the welfare of all equine athletes and the ongoing focus on their wellbeing and will continue to work with the industry to understand the cause of this incident."

Racing.com