Overview
- Trainer Kenny McPeek and family found Albarado at their Saratoga Springs home after he failed to come down for breakfast, and multiple outlets report he was discovered on Tuesday following a recent hospital discharge.
- McPeek says Albarado suffered a heart attack last week, had a stent placed to treat a blockage, experienced a second cardiac event, and was released from the hospital before his death, but no official medical cause beyond those reports has been released.
- Albarado retired from race riding in 2021 but worked as an exercise rider for McPeek, and his career totals include 5,222 wins and more than $221 million in purse earnings with signature victories aboard Curlin and Swiss Skydiver.
- Racing organizations and peers issued immediate tributes, Churchill Downs released a condolence statement, and the New York Racing Association moved to hold a moment of silence at Saratoga as remembrances continue.
- Coverage also recalls legal incidents from 2011–2012 that sources say affected his Hall of Fame consideration, a debate likely to resurface as the sport reflects on his legacy and the loss felt by colleagues and family.