Sports

Racing Administration in Britain embraces Lord Allen as new chairperson

Charles Allen, Lord of Kensington, takes on the chair position at the British Horseracing Authority.

, and Administrator

2025 September 14 . 11:34 PM

2 min read

Horseracing Authority in Britain welcomes Lord Allen for his new role as chairman.

Racing Administration in Britain embraces Lord Allen as new chairperson

Lord Charles Allen of Kensington has taken over as the chair of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) on September 1, 2025, following the departure of Joe Saumarez Smith due to illness. In a press release, Lord Allen thanked David Jones, who served as the interim chair before him, for his leadership.

The new chair described the industry's decision to cancel all racing on September 10 as an "historic step." This action is part of a planned protest against proposed changes to taxes that have raised concerns within the racing sector. The industry's message is clear: "Axe the Racing Tax."

Lord Allen's vision for British racing is to develop it into a "modern commercial and cultural powerhouse." He emphasised that horse racing isn't just a sport but also an industry, employing approximately 85,000 people who are dependent or independently involved.

Before becoming the chair, Joe Saumarez Smith served as a non-executive director at the BHA since December 2014. He served as the chair of the BHA from March 2022 until his passing in early February. Lord Allen expressed his gratitude to Brant Dunshea, the acting chief executive, and his colleagues for their contributions during the past year.

The cancellation of racing on September 10 is a significant move, as it signals the industry's unity and determination to fight against the proposed tax changes. Lord Allen's statement expresses concern for the sport on multiple levels, recognising the potential impact of these changes on the industry and its people.

Nick Rust was the predecessor of Lord Charles Allen of Kensington as chair of the British Horseracing Authority. As the new chair takes on his role ahead of this planned protest, he is poised to lead the industry through this challenging time, with a focus on advocating for fair taxation and ensuring the long-term sustainability of British racing.