SportHorse racingSteve Richards, who was 70 and licensed for 40 years, had been in coma since the accident last week but his death was announced on Thursday09:52, 21 May 2026A top trainer has died of his injuries after striking his head in a fall while getting off a tram. Steve Richards, who was 70, had been in a coma in hospital in Melbourne, Australia, since the accident a week ago..‌A family statement confirmed on Monday: "The family of Steven Richards wish to announce that Steve had a serious accident and is hospitalised. He is in a coma," it read.‌"The incident occurred last Thursday. Steve fell and hit his head on the pavement. We are very grateful to the ambulance and hospital team, whose fast reaction and constant care have not only brought comfort to the family, but saved Steve.‌READ MORE: Jockey suspended for ‘hitting horse over the head’ with whip gets whopping banREAD MORE: Aidan O’Brien pulls six out of Derby but still has 10 horses in £2m Classic"There is no doubt that Steve will have a long road to recovery, so we ask that all those in the racing industry please pray for his rehabilitation and wellbeing."However on Thursday it was announced that Richards, who in a 40 year career sent out 273 winners, 15 Group races winners including two at the highest level Group 1, had died of his injuries. He is survived by wife Maryanne and daughters Brooke and Laura.Racing Victoria said: “It is with great sadness that Racing Victoria and the Australian Trainers Association acknowledge the passing of long-time Flemington trainer Steve Richards, who succumbed to injuries sustained after falling and hitting his head last week.”‌“Racing Victoria extends its heartfelt condolences on behalf of the entire Victorian racing industry to the family and friends of Steve Richards on the news of his passing in such tragic circumstances,” the regulator’s chief executive Aaron Morrison said.“Our thoughts are also with the trainers and staff at Flemington where Steve was a very popular and hard-working member of the training ranks for many years, along with the numerous jockeys who rode for him throughout his training career.Article continues below“Steve was a highly respected trainer, especially for his ability to identify and develop young horses, and he also was someone that was willing to help others further their careers in the sport which is a great quality.”Richards, who sent out his last runner April, survived a serious incident in 2016 when one of his horses kicked him. He had to have his spleen removed as well as suffering broken ribs and damaged lungs."If he had kicked me a little bit higher, I wouldn't be talking to you. I regard myself as extremely lucky," Richards said at the time.Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌HospitalsAnimals