Following the completion of the Racecourse Association’s governance review, the Jockey Club has announced it will cut ties with the racecourse trade body.
A recent statement from the RCA regarding discussions about ways to reform the sport was described as ‘tone deaf’ by the Jockey Club. This follows the departure of the former BHA Chair Lord Allen in March, just six months into his role.
The growing uncertainty amongst the RCA prompted Ascot to depart earlier this year, and the Jockey Club has followed suit.
The Jockey Club released a press review on Monday morning, as the chief executive Jim Mullen said:
“While acknowledging the work that has taken place since March. We have consistently set out throughout the review that it needed to address not just the racecourse voting shares within the RCA. But the organisation’s role in representing racecourses politically through its 50% holding of member shares in the BHA.
“This review has addressed the RCA’s internal arrangements. But not the constitutional arrangements through which racecourses collectively exercise their influence over the governance of British racing. The RCA’s proposals fail to address our fundamental concern that the RCA can continue to act to stifle the necessary changes needed in the industry.
“Nothing proposed would displace the RCA as the political representative of British racecourses. And in our view, confirmed by recent discussions, the RCA would continue to vote against necessary changes. Such as the introduction of an independent BHA board and substantive changes to the fixture list.”
Jockey Club ‘remain committed’ to racing’s key discussions
Jim Mullen acknowledged that the RCA’s recent review incurred well-intended beliefs, but ultimately, the political landscape of the RCA hindered the belief that the body is in the best position to improve the sport.
Mullen continued: “While recent talks have focused on the valuable operational services provided by the RCA to the wider racecourse community. It’s our view that without change to the political representation, the price of maintaining those operations is sadly too high . When judged against the political role the organisation plays and its ability to suppress reform.
“In stepping away we remain committed to participating in decisions related to British Racing’s future. We have therefore begun discussions with the BHA. To explore the most appropriate framework for representing the interests of those within the industry. Who share a commitment to the long-term sustainability and quality of British racing.
“As set out, the BHA articles aim to ensure ‘as far as is practicable. That the membership and structure remains as representative of Racing as possible’. It is our intention to work with Ascot Racecourse and other likeminded industry partners. To pursue a vision based on the long-term sustainability of the sport. We are in the early stages of establishing a new organisation to do this.