Sport has paid tribute after Queen Elizabeth II, the UK’s longest-serving monarch, died aged 96.
Messages poured in from sporting governing bodies and personalities after her death was announced on Thursday.
A minute’s silence was held at Manchester United, Arsenal, West Ham and Hearts’ European matches.
And in horse racing, the sport most closely linked to Her Majesty, she was described as its “greatest supporter”.
Horse racing
Ascot, the racecourse most deeply connected with the Queen, paid tribute to one of the sport’s great advocates.
The Berkshire venue is famed for its royal meeting and procession from nearby Windsor Castle, with the Queen having enjoyed many high-profile victories at the track – not least when Estimate won the Gold Cup in 2013.
Sir Francis Brooke, Her Majesty’s representative at the track, said: “The nation mourns the loss of a much loved and respected monarch. The world of racing has lost one of its greatest supporters.
“We at Ascot are privileged to have so many memories of Her Majesty, the Queen, at this, her racecourse, including some wonderful victories in the royal colours.”
Nicky Henderson, who trained racehorses for the Queen and Queen Mother, added: “Racing has lost its best friend and greatest patron, the country has lost its Queen – but she was more than a Queen. The country has lost somebody who was its greatest servant. She was absolutely the greatest.
“She knew horses inside out, so it was always a pleasure to be able to talk and discuss horses – and lots of other things as well. Her loss is immeasurable. It is an emotional day and I am very emotional.”
Sir Michael Stoute, trainer of Estimate, said: “It was an honour and also a great pleasure to train for the Queen because she had such a formidable knowledge of the horse.”
And AP McCoy, 20-time champion jump jockey and knighted in 2016, added: “We will miss your knowledge, passion, sense of humour, charming ease and most of all your irreplaceable presence. RIP Ma’am.”
Football
All Premier League clubs posted individual messages paying their respect to the Queen and the Premier League said it was “deeply saddened” by her death.
“Our thoughts and condolences are with the Royal Family and everyone around the world mourning the loss of Her Majesty,” the league said.
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