Fan favourite Red Cadeaux has been euthanised due to the injury sustained at the Melbourne Cup earlier this month.

The stayer, who won the hearts of Australian fans after a host of near misses in the race that stops the nation, suffered a break in his left foreleg.

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A Racing Victoria statement said “irreversible complications arose” with injury, forcing a tough decision.

“This is my saddest day in racing. Red Cadeaux was a much loved member of our family and my thoughts are with his owner Mr Arculli and my staff, particularly Robin Trevor-Jones and Steve Nicholson, who spent every day caring for this horse,” trainer Ed Dunlop said.

“Unfortunately the complication was irreversible and the decision to euthanise the horse, whilst terribly hard, was made in his best interests.

“Red Cadeaux has given us and the racing public so much joy competing with great distinction across the world. He was an incredibly tough competitor with a wonderful nature and he will be dearly missed by all.

“I want to thank all the vets in Australia, particularly at the University of Melbourne Equine Clinic, that have worked tirelessly on the horse since the race and given him the very best of care.

“On behalf of Mr Arculli [owner Ronnie Arculli] and my staff, I also want to thank the Australian public and his racing fans from around the world for their wonderful support and well wishes during what has been an incredibly tough time for us all.”