John Ferguson Appointed to BHA Board

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has announced that bloodstock agent, former trainer and senior industry figure John Ferguson has been appointed to the Board of the BHA as one of the two Member-Nominated Directors nominated by the TBA, ROA, and NTF (acting on behalf of the Licensed Personnel).

John has taken over from Luca Cumani, whose term on the BHA Board has ended.

John’s career in racing has been extensive and varied. His roles have included working as stable staff and as an assistant trainer to Sir Michael Stoute, as a trainer of 287 National Hunt winners (including Grade 1s with Ruacana and Parlour Games), and as a racing manager, owner, breeder and bloodstock agent.

John also represented Darley and Godolphin for over 22 years from 1994 to 2017, including as Chief Executive of Godolphin.

In 2021 he set up Natalma Bloodstock, a bloodstock investment company which has broodmares in Europe, the United States and Australia. He is also a member of the UK Jockey Club, US Jockey Club and has a Japan Racing Association owners licence.

John Ferguson said: “Having had a career in horseracing that has been beyond my wildest dreams, working for some incredible people, I feel honoured and privileged to have been offered this role.

“Having worked as a member of stable staff and had my first novice hurdle winner at Hexham, through to breeding, owning and selling horses all over the world, I hope that I am able to well represent licensed personnel.

“It is now in our hands to shape horseracing into a sustainable and fabulous sport for future generations.”

BHA Chair Joe Saumarez Smith said: “We are delighted to welcome John to the Board. He brings with him extensive experience of the training and bloodstock industries, alongside his intimate knowledge of the industry’s workings from his time as a senior leader in the sport.”