The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has confirmed the inbound appointment of Raj Parker as an independent non-executive director for UK racing’s governing body. 

A senior partner of London law firm Freshfields, Parker is recognised as one of the UK’s leading barristers and arbitrators of sports and media law.  

Parker will join the BHA governance on 1 January 2022, replacing Sir Paul Stephenson who served as Non-Executive Regulatory Director since 2015.

“I’m extremely excited to be joining the Board of the BHA at this particular time, and becoming involved in the horseracing industry,” said Parker on joining the BHA.  

“I very much look forward to helping the Board with its commitment to effective regulation and integrity and to ensure that the sport continues to be clean, fair, and well-governed.”

The BHA underscored Parker’s experience within sports, providing legal oversight as an independent panel expert for World Athletics, The FA and the Tennis Integrity Unit (TIU).

Furthermore, Parker has further served as Vice President of Basketball’s Arbitral Tribunal and Deputy Chair of the Premier League’s Judicial Panel.

BHA Chair Annamarie Phelps commented: “We are delighted to welcome Raj to the Board. His prodigious experience in regulatory matters and sports law will be a valuable asset to the Board and to the sport.

”We are also extremely grateful for the contribution made by Sir Paul Stephenson to the sport over his six years at the BHA. He has played a pivotal role in what has been a period of significant change when it comes to regulation and compliance within British racing. He is a person of utmost integrity who carries the respect and appreciation of everyone on the Board.”