Henri Pouret to Take Over As EMHF Chair

France's Henri Pouret has been named as Chairman elect of the European and Mediterranean Horseracing Federation (EMHF). At the EMHF's Executive Council meeting in Casablanca, Morocco last weekend an election was held to determine the successor to Ireland's Brian Kavanagh, who has held the post since the Federation's inception in 2010.

Mr Pouret, who is Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Chief Executive Officer at France Galop, the governing body for Thoroughbred racing in France, was also recently elected as Vice-Chair of the global International Federation of Horseracing Authorities. Pouret said:

“I am honoured and very thankful to the Executive Council for placing its trust and confidence in me to fulfil the role of EMHF Chair to succeed Brian who did a tremendous job. I am a great enthusiast of European and Mediterranean racing in all its diversity. Europe is a leader in many aspects of horseracing, especially regarding the quality control of black type races and integrity, based on cross border competition. I am really hopeful for the years to come in this region and will be fully dedicated to this new role in collaboration with the members’ racing authorities and the invaluable experience of Secretary-General Dr. Paull Khan.”

Mr Kavanagh, who will continue as Chair until June 1st, 2025, added:

“I am delighted that Henri will succeed me as Chairman of the European and Mediterranean Horseracing Federation. He has excellent experience and knowledge of racing throughout the region and will do a great job. For me it has been a privilege to serve as Chairman of the EMHF which plays an important role in linking the smaller and larger racing countries and representing a single voice for racing authorities throughout Europe and the broader Mediterranean area”.