Arrowfield Stud has announced the death of one of Australia’s great stallions with Snitzel euthanised at the Hunter Valley stud on Wednesday morning.

The son of Redoute’s Choice, a four-time winner of the Australian Champion Stallion award, succumbed to age-related issues less just over two months short of his 23rd birthday.

“Known for his soundness and vitality throughout most of his life, Snitzel began to show signs of age-related decline in 2024,” the John Messara-led stud said in a statement.

“Despite comprehensive veterinary support and the daily dedication of Arrowfield’s experienced stallion team, his condition deteriorated rapidly over the past week.

“With no treatment options remaining, the decision was made to allow him a peaceful and dignified farewell.

“Arrowfield acknowledges the profound impact of his passing, not only as the loss of a great horse, but as the end of a significant chapter in the stud’s history.

“Snitzel was more than a commercial success; he was a reliable and stoic presence who shaped the daily rhythm of life at the farm and anchored many careers.”

Snitzel won the Australian Champion Stallion award each season from 2017-2020, making him one of only six stallions in 140 years to win four-straight titles and the first since his grandsire, Danehill.

To date, he has thrown the winners of 3673 races, who helped accumulate $257,452,569 in stakes.

He has produced 160 Stakes winners, who have combined for 309 Group and Listed wins, including 23 Group 1 winners.

Among them are Golden Slipper winners Estijaab, Shinzo and Marhoona, dual The Everest winner Redzel, Coolmore Stud Stakes winner Switzerland and Cox Plate champion Shamus Award.

The latter will help ensure his legacy lives, himself a multiple Group 1-winning sire, while Russian Revolution, Trapeze Artist, Invader and Thronum are among his other sons who have had good success as stallions.