Betting markets highlight 59th IFHA Conference

“The International Conference has for many years provided a platform for all of us, the stewards of racing in our respective jurisdictions,” said IFHA Chair Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges.

“Racing’s long-term success is dependent on our ability to not only address the threats that we face today, but moreover to embrace the opportunities they present us.”

Staged at the Le Méridien Paris Arc de Triomphe on Monday 6 October, the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities held the 59th International Conference of Horseracing Authorities.

“We come together and discuss the key issues impacting our sport today and to chart the course for its future with the focus on racing betting, both in the legal and illegal markets.”

“Along with marketing and customer experience some 65 delegates from about 40 countries world-wide heard from leaders from around the globe on these pressing topics.”

Moderated by sports television presenter Rishi Persad the first session of the Conference, Racing Wagering & Marketing – What Today’s Customers Want and What the Future Holds.

Exploring the dynamic landscape of horse racing wagering and marketing we also examine how technological advancements and shifting consumer behaviours are reshaping the industry.

“I can assure you have that I have absolute faith and optimism in the growth of this sport, and I think there is a huge potential internationally,” said Felicity Barnard, CEO of Ascot Racecourse.

“I think we are doing lots of things right, but I think we could do a lot of things better, together.”

Tony Allevato, CRO and President of NYRA Bets echoed those thoughts saying “Sometimes, we don’t give ourselves enough credit, and If we can take a step back, and look at what we are doing.”

“Trust ourselves, and know that we are creative, we can get horse racing to get to the next level. I truly believe that.”

In addition, Drew Fleming, President CEO of Breeders’ Cup; Pablo Kavulakian, President American Racing Channel; Atsushi Kikuta, of International Affairs, Japan Racing Association took part.

Growth of the Illegal Betting Market and Tackling Challenges in Betting Regulation served as the second session, with panelists discussed the immense growth of illegal betting on racing.

Also including were other related sports which examined the impacts of tighter government controls on gambling.

Vincent Ven, Head of Anti-Match-Fixing, Union of European Football Associations discussed how different sports share the same challenges and the importance of educating participants.

Looking at potential integrity threats as well as working with all different stakeholders, it was Ben Cleminson, the CEO of Square in the Air, who spoke on growth and innovation in horse racing.

Also presenting were Tom Chignell, Consultant on Integrity Projects, The Hong Kong Jockey Club; Brant Dunshea, Acting CEO British Horseracing Authority; Luca Esposito, Executive Director World Lottery Association;Martin Purbrick, Chair IFHA Council on Anti-illegal Betting and Related Crime.

Salem Binmahfooz, Chairman advisor and Technical Committee member of the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia, provided an overview of the 41st Asian Racing Conference scheduled to take place in Riyadh in February 2026.