Middleham Park Racing flagbearer Lazy Griff (Protectionist), who was placed in both the Derby and Irish Derby in 2025, has died after suffering a setback in his recovery from the injury he sustained at Chester last month.Trained by Charlie Johnston, Lazy Griff won three of his 12 career starts, including the G3 Prix de Conde at Chantilly as a two-year-old, before he returned the following year with a runner-up finish behind Lambourn (Australia) in the G3 Chester Vase. He went on to hit the frame behind the same horse at both Epsom and the Curragh, with his Derby effort seeing him finish second, less than four lengths behind the winner, at odds of 50-1.Having missed the rest of his three-year-old campaign after finishing third in the Irish Derby, Lazy Griff proved that he retained most of his ability when winning July's Listed Coral Marathon at Sandown, but he sadly could not be saved after being pulled up during his most recent start on the Roodee.“It is with great sadness that we can announce that Lazy Griff was put to sleep this morning,” read a statement issued by Middleham Park Racing on social media.“Following the injury he sustained in August, he had been receiving the very best care, and there had been hope that he would recover sufficiently to enjoy a happy life after racing. Very sadly, he suffered a setback over the weekend and, following veterinary advice, the difficult decision was made to prevent any further suffering.“Griff was a hugely talented horse who gave his owners so many wonderful memories. None will be more cherished than his outstanding second-place finish in the Epsom Derby and third in the Irish Derby, performances that showcased the quality and courage he possessed. He took us to places that we've been striving to go since MPR was founded over 31 years ago.“He was a special horse who brought enormous pride and joy to so many people, and he will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing, caring for and cheering him on. Our thoughts are with all of his owners and with everyone at Johnston Racing, who cared for him so diligently throughout his life. Rest in peace, Lazy Griff.”The post Dual Derby Placegetter Lazy Griff Dies appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions.