THE Aga Khan, one of the most successful owner-breeders in the history of horse racing and notable supporter of Irish equestrian sport, died peacefully on Tuesday in Lisbon. He was 88.

The Aga Khan was the spiritual leader by heredity of about 12 million people from the Ismaili sect of Islam, who live in over 35 countries. A statement issued on Tuesday evening by the Aga Khan Development Network said: “His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), passed away peacefully in Lisbon on February 4, 2025, aged 88, surrounded by his family”. On Wednesday, it was confirmed that his son, Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan V, is now the 50th hereditary Imam, following the unsealing of the will of his late father.