BHA Adds Paul Johnson to Board as John Ferguson Exits

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has appointed Paul Johnson, CEO of the National Trainers Federation (NTF), as a member of its board. As someone deeply involved with the industry, Johnson will be a valuable addition to the team and a perfect successor to John Ferguson, whose term ended.

Johnson Joins the Board

The authority clarified that Johnson has joined its board as one of its two member-nominated directors. It clarified that he had been nominated by the Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association, Racehorse Owners Association and licensed personnel.

According to the BHA, Johnson is an experienced member of the UK horseracing industry. He is also no stranger to the BHA, as he has previously led the authority’s Racing Department.

Johnson’s involvement with the horseracing industry doesn’t end there as he has also been a director of Great British Racing and a member of the Racecourse Association.

According to the BHA, his appointment is with immediate effect. At the same time, the BHA continues to work toward the creation of an independent board of directors.

Johnson Says That His Board Membership is a Great Privilege

Paul Johnson said that he was pleased about joining the BHA board as one of its two member-nominated directors. He said that he believes that the opportunity to contribute to the ongoing development of the sport and its governance is a “great privilege.”

I am pleased to be able to join the BHA Board as a Member-Nominated Director and consider it a great privilege to contribute to the ongoing development of the sport and its governance as we work towards the formation of a fully independent board.

Paul Johnson

Johnson thanked the outgoing John Ferguson for his incredible contributions to the board.

David Jones, senior independent director of the BHA, welcomed Johnson on board, calling him a “valuable addition” to the BHA team. He added that the appointment comes at an important time for the organization, which is seeking to establish independent directors.

Jones also extended thanks to Ferguson, saying that the BHA has benefited considerably from his industry expertise.

BHA Welcomes Lord Charles Allen as Chair

Meanwhile, the BHA just announced that Lord Charles Allen of Kensington has been named as chairman of the BHA’s board. To mark the occasion, Allen released a lengthy statement, expressing commitment to supporting the future of the sport.

Among other things, he said that horseracing is a sport for everyone, not just the few. He added that British racing is well known for its heritage, quality, and integrity and welfare standards.

My vision is not simply that we work to preserve this, but to develop British racing into a modern commercial and cultural powerhouse: a sport that commands attention on the global stage, attracts new audiences, inspires fans at home, supports its people, and continues to set the gold standard for the care of the horse.

Lord Charles Allen

In the meantime, the BHA continues to protest Britain’s planned racing tax hike.