Former BHA chair Joe Saumarez Smith dies aged 53

The British Horseracing Authority has announced the death of its former chair Joe Saumarez Smith.

Saumarez Smith, who was diagnosed with cancer in June 2023, stood down from his role with the sport’s governing body at the end of January due to his deteriorating health.

In a statement, the BHA said: “It is with great sadness that the British Horseracing Authority can today confirm the death of our former chair and friend Joe Saumarez Smith.

“Joe, who was 53, died at home today surrounded by his family. Our thoughts and prayers – and we are sure those of everyone involved in our sport – are with Joe’s family and friends.

“He will be hugely missed by us all.”

The statement continued: “His wife Wanda and their children have asked us to pass on their deep thanks for all the messages of support they have received since Joe was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2023 and especially since he stepped down as BHA chair on January 30 when his health worsened.

“They have asked for their privacy to be respected at this difficult time.

“Throughout a long and distinguished career in racing Joe was a passionate and dedicated supporter of the sport, combining that drive with great diplomatic skills to promote racing at home and abroad.”

Senior independent director David Jones assumed the role of interim chair after Saumarez Smith stepped down last month, with Lord Charles Allen assuming the role on June 1.

Jones described Saumarez Smith as “not just a personal friend to many of us but a great friend of racing”, adding: “Joe’s enthusiasm for the sport shone through in everything he did. He had such a deep knowledge of all aspects of the industry and I and other board colleagues will really miss his insight.”

The BHA’s acting chief executive, Brant Dunshea, added: “It has been a great privilege to have known and worked with Joe, always providing wise counsel and tremendous support to the BHA team and to me personally, and for that we will be forever grateful.

“His commitment to advocating Britain’s interests on the global stage was unwavering, and for that British racing owes him a huge debt of gratitude. We will miss him terribly.”