Trainer Bill Mott has confirmed that Cigar, the iconic Thoroughbred that won 16 consecutive races and banked just under $10 million in career purse earnings, has passed away at the age of 24.

According to an article by the Lexington Herald-Leader, Mott, who trained the son of Palace Music for Madeline Paulson and the late Allen Paulson, has confirmed Cigar’s passing via text.

Cigar, who was found to be infertile after his outstanding racing career, had been living at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky since 1999. His fans were able to see him in the flesh at the Horse Park’s Hall of Champions.

"He will certainly be missed here,” said Wes Lanter, who overseas the Horse Park. “Every day there is someone here who comes specifically to see him. He means a lot to the park, a lot to the Commonwealth and us."

The Lexington Herald-Leader report states that Cigar passed away after surgery, but details are not available at this time.

Cigar retired from racing in 1996 as the top money-earner ($9,999,815) in the history of Thoroughbred racing.

The 1995 Breeders' Cup Classic winner nabbed numerous accolades throughout his career, and was also the winner of the inaugural edition of the Dubai World Cup (1996).

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the connections of Cigar.

(With files from the Lexington Herald-Leader)