The rush of excitement following the 2014 Melbourne Cup quickly turned to sadness as favourite Admire Rakti passed away following the race.

Admire Rakti passed away following the 2014 Melbourne Cup. Photo by Race Horse Photos Australia.

Stewards at Flemington Racecourse have confirmed that the Japanese-trained entire collapsed and died in his stalls after the race.

Admire Rakti was $6 favourite to win the Group 1 Emirates Melbourne Cup (3200m) at Ladbrokes.com.au following a fantastic win in the Caulfield Cup on October 18.

It was clear there was something amiss with the stayer during the race. He was one of the leaders up until the bend when he pulled up, walking home to last place.

While further news surrounding the death has yet to be released, Admire Rakti’s body will be sent to Werribee for an autopsy.