Sebastian Nicholl to Step Away from Lukas Stable

Following the passing of legendary trainer D. Wayne Lukas, assistant Sebastian Nicholl initially took over day-to-day operations of the stable, but will not continue in that role long term.

Nicholl had been a trusted part of the Lukas operation since the early 2000's and was widely expected to continue to lead the barn after Lukas’s death. He briefly assumed responsibility after Lukas passing last month, helping manage the stable during the immediate transition.

However, it now appears that Nicholl will not stay on as head trainer. While he did not elaborate on the reasons for stepping back, he confirmed that he intends to remain active in racing as an assistant trainer elsewhere.

In the short term, Nicholl will continue working with the Lukas family to help manage aspects of the Lukas estate what we assume will be a large transition of leadership at the highest levels of the Lukas barn.

The Lukas barn remains one of the most iconic in American racing, and its future now enters a new phase. 9 Furlongs Racing will continue to provide updates as more details become available.