The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has officially announced that Simon Cox will fill the position as Chair. Cox will fill a position which has been empty since March. Amo Racing, meanwhile, have kept faith in David Egan as their retained rider, but will move to a “best available” policy for the biggest races.
Here is today’s racing news round-up on a busy Thursday.
BHA appoint Simon Cox as Chair
The BHA has appointed Simon Cox as their new Chair. Cox will take up the position at the start of October, ensuring the position will have been vacant for more than six months. The BHA praised Cox for being a member of both the Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association (TBA) and the Professional Jockeys’ Association (PJA), the latter as part of the board. Cox has also been an owner-breeder for the last 15 years. Cox said in the statement that “British racing and breeding is a worldwide success story.” (BHA)
Amo Racing to seek “best available” riders for big races
After reports suggested a split, David Egan has revealed that he will still ride prominently for Amo Racing. However, the controversial ownership, fronted by football agent Kia Joorabchian, have announced that they will seek a “best available” policy when it comes to the biggest race days. Egan’s contract with Amo Racing is due to run until the end of 2028. (Racing Post)
King George build-up: Masquerade Ball in “race of his life” as Calandagan camp remain confident
Connections of Japanese hope Masquerade Ball have suggested Saturday’s King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes will be the “biggest race of his life”. The four-year-old was narrowly denied by Calandagn in the Japan Cup at the end of 2025. Takahisa Tezuka, Masquerade Ball’s trainer, struck a hopeful tone in advance of the race, saying: “We are looking forward to seeing how much our horse has developed since then (the Japan Cup).” (Mirror)
Calandagan’s connections are also confident ahead of what is shaping up to be Britain’s strongest flat race for years. Francis-Henri Graffard’s gelding disappointed in the Coronation Cup when conditions turned against him. However, he bounced back with an impressive performance in the Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud. Nemone Routh, who manages the Aga Khan’s racing operations in France, has suggested that “any horse that lowers his colours at Ascot is going to be running a very big race.” (Racing Post)
Edwardstone retired at age 12
A warrior of the British jumps racing scene in recent seasons, Edwardstone has been retired with immediate effect. The 12-year-old went out on a high, claiming Grade 1 honours in the Celebration Chase at Sandown. He also claimed glory at the Cheltenham Festival when successful in the Arkle in 2022. Four of his 12 career wins came at the highest level, including three at Sandown: he also won the Henry VIII Novices’ Chase and Tingle Creek. (The Sun)