The International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA) hosted its 60th International Conference of Horseracing Authorities (ICHA) on October 5 at Le Méridien Paris Arc de Triomphe in Paris, France. Over 150 delegates representing nearly 40 countries gathered throughout the day to discuss the sport’s most urgent challenges. Marking a significant milestone, the conference reflected on IFHA’s six decades of accomplishments before turning its focus to the future of global horse racing.
The keynote speech, delivered by Princess Zahra Aga Khan—whose horse Daryz had just claimed a second Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (G1) victory—received a standing ovation. She emphasized the importance of preserving genetic diversity within breeding, using her example of Calandagan, a horse not currently in vogue but vital to maintaining healthy bloodlines. She also highlighted the need to make racing more accessible to new fans and to better showcase the extensive care and effort invested behind the scenes.
Princess Zahra stressed that misconceptions about racing must be addressed, pointing out that the public often only sees the races themselves without recognizing the many people working throughout the industry—from breeding to race day.
Andrew Harding, IFHA Executive Director, shared a historical overview of the federation’s 60-year journey, noting horse racing’s leadership in anti-doping measures and its ongoing efforts against gene doping. He also discussed the International Agreement that harmonizes regulations internationally and the use of science and technology to enhance equine welfare worldwide. Harding described how the IFHA has created a global framework enabling horse racing to function as a unified international sport rather than isolated national events.
Following Harding’s presentation, former Asian Racing Federation Chair Murray Acklin offered a pre-recorded message ahead of a panel reflecting on key developments in IFHA’s history and its impact both internationally and domestically. The panel included prominent figures such as Jim Gagliano, The Jockey Club’s President and IFHA Vice-Chair, Brian Kavanagh, CEO of The Curragh, and former IFHA Vice-Chairs Simon Cooper and Frances Nelson.
The second conference session was led by IFHA Chair Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, who addressed the federation’s evolution into a more proactive global leadership body while outlining critical challenges facing the sport. His topics included expanding racing’s fanbase, ensuring the Thoroughbred’s sustainability, and protecting funding structures vital to the industry. Engelbrecht-Bresges called on the international racing community to unite amid social, political, and economic uncertainties to safeguard the sport’s future.
Engelbrecht-Bresges participated in a panel discussion alongside leaders from Japan Racing Association, France Galop, The Jockey Club (US), Horse Racing Ireland, Ascot, International Thoroughbred Breeders’ Federation, and the National Horseracing Authority of Southern Africa. They focused on steering the sport toward a strong and sustainable future.
The conference concluded with Engelbrecht-Bresges paying tribute to the late Louis Romanet, IFHA Chairman Emeritus, who passed away earlier that year. He honored Romanet’s dedication to uniting the racing world under a shared responsibility for the sport’s future, emphasizing that Romanet’s legacy will continue to inspire the global racing community.
The first International Conference of Horseracing Authorities was held in Paris on October 9, 1967, organized by the Société d’Encouragement. Since 1994, the IFHA has hosted the event annually, with the Japan Racing Association serving as official partner since 2021.
A replay of the conference’s live stream and presentations will be made available shortly.
Fan Take: This landmark conference highlights the global horseracing community’s commitment to preserving the sport’s rich heritage while embracing innovation and sustainability. For fans, it signals a promising effort to broaden racing’s appeal, improve horse welfare, and safeguard the sport’s future amid evolving challenges.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
