The global horse racing community is mourning the loss of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, who passed away in Lisbon on February 4, 2025, at the age of 88. Renowned for his profound influence on horse racing and breeding, his legacy in the sport is as distinguished and enduring as the iconic green and red silks his horses carried to victory.
The Aga Khan family’s involvement in horse racing spans over a century, with Aga Khan IV assuming responsibility for the operation following his father’s passing in 1960. Initially uncertain about continuing the tradition, he quickly developed a deep appreciation for the sport, winning the French owners’ championship in his very first season. This early triumph marked the beginning of a remarkable journey, during which he elevated the Aga Khan Studs into one of the most prestigious breeding and racing enterprises in the world.
Aga Khan IV became synonymous with excellence in horse breeding, producing some of the sport’s most celebrated champions. Legendary names such as SHERGAR and SEA THE STARS rank among the greatest thoroughbreds of all time, while stars like SINNDAR, EREVANN and ZARKAVA further cemented the enduring influence of his breeding program. His horses not only achieved success on the racetrack but also shaped the very foundation of modern thoroughbred bloodlines, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
His approach to breeding was both methodical and intuitive. He famously described it as “a game of chess with nature,” recognizing the delicate balance of science, strategy, and instinct required to produce top-class racehorses. His breeding operations in France and Ireland were known for their meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that each generation of Aga Khan-bred horses upheld the highest standards of quality, stamina, and class. Many of his homebred champions went on to become influential stallions and broodmares, further extending his impact across global breeding programs.
Beyond his achievements on the track, Aga Khan IV played a pivotal role in the development of racing infrastructure, most notably contributing to the redevelopment of the Curragh Racecourse in Ireland. His lifelong dedication to the sport was recognized with numerous accolades, including the prestigious Contribution to the Industry Award at the Horse Racing Ireland Awards in 2024, a testament to his vision, leadership, and generosity.
Aga Khan IV’s devotion to horse racing and breeding was paralleled by his philanthropic efforts. While his vast fortune, often speculated to be in the billions, enabled his racing ambitions, it also served a greater purpose through the Aga Khan Development Network, which has positively impacted communities worldwide. This dual legacy—of excellence in sport and commitment to humanitarian work—reflects the depth of his influence both within and beyond the racing world.
As we remember Aga Khan IV, we honor not only his extraordinary contributions to horse racing but also his passion for the “sport of kings,” which transcended mere competition. His vision, dedication, and enduring legacy will continue to inspire generations of breeders, owners, and racing enthusiasts.
Rest in Peace, His Highness the Aga Khan IV.
