Byrne Named BHA Head of Racing and Betting

Tom Byrne has been appointed head of racing and betting for the British Horseracing Authority, a revised role that replaces head of racing and racecourses. That position was previously held by Paul Johnson, who commences his role as chief executive of the National Trainers Federation in January.

Byrne joins the BHA after four years with the Horserace Betting Levy Board as operations manager. He previously held roles with GBI Racing and Racing Post. He will begin in the role in February and oversee the management and development of the BHA's racing department including production and development of the fixture list and race programme and will liaise with the betting industry to support the growth of betting on British racing.

Richard Wayman, the BHA's chief operating officer, said, “This was a very competitive recruitment process, and Tom was appointed from an impressive field of candidates. Tom is a great addition to the BHA team. As part of his role at HBLB, he has been heavily involved in matters relating to the fixture list and race programme, and their funding. As a result, he has a deep understanding of these areas as well as also having strong relationships with many of racing's stakeholders, with whom he will continue to work closely. As well as looking to continue to develop the fixture list and race programme to ensure that our horses have the opportunities to fulfil their potential, we want to ensure that racing can grow its appeal to customers and investors. Tom's good relationships with the betting industry will also be an asset, with betting liaison now forming an important part of the job. I'm delighted to welcome Tom to the BHA and look forward to working with him.”

Byrne added, “To join the BHA as part of the experienced and talented racing team is an opportunity and challenge that I am thrilled to have been offered. I am passionate about British racing and look forward to working with my new colleagues and stakeholders across the sport to deliver an environment which produces the competitive and compelling horseracing that is so crucial for our long-term growth and sustainability. It has been an honour to work for the Levy Board and I would like to thank Alan Delmonte and the HBLB team for all their support, encouragement and guidance. I'm pleased we will continue to work closely together in my new role.”