Joe Saumarez Smith Appointed New Chair of Great British Racing

London – Great British Racing (GBR) has announced the immediate appointment of Joe Saumarez Smith as its new Chair. The move comes at a pivotal moment for British horseracing, with GBR expressing anticipation for his leadership in navigating the sport's current challenges and opportunities.

GBR, the marketing and promotional body for British horseracing, is tasked with attracting new fans and customers while growing the sport's overall reach and popularity. The organization works closely with racecourses and industry stakeholders to promote racing, facing ongoing challenges such as declining attendances, increased competition from other leisure activities, and critical discussions surrounding welfare and funding models.

Joe Saumarez Smith brings extensive experience to his new role, having served as a director on the GBR board since 2017. He has been the current Chair of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) since June 2022, a position where he has been instrumental in bringing fresh perspectives and commercial acumen to the sport's governing body. His background also includes co-founding the sports data company Sports Gaming and serving on the board of The Jockey Club.

According to the official announcement, > "GBR is pleased to announce the appointment of Joe Saumarez Smith as its new Chair, effective immediately. Joe brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the racing industry, having served as a director on the GBR board since 2017." The statement further emphasized that his appointment > "comes at a crucial time for British racing, as the sport navigates significant challenges and opportunities."

His strategic vision and deep understanding of the racing industry's commercial aspects are expected to be vital as GBR aims to drive positive change and ensure a sustainable future for British racing. GBR stated its commitment to working with Saumarez Smith to achieve these objectives amidst the evolving landscape of the sport.