Conor Grant to step down as Chair of Racecourse Media Group

(AsiaGameHub) –   Racecourse Media Group (RMG) has revealed that Conor Grant is set to resign from his role as Chairman by the conclusion of 2026.

RMG, which serves as the parent entity for Racing TV, represents 37 British racecourse shareholders and broadcasts live events from 61 venues across Ireland and the UK.

Having first joined the board as a Non-Executive Director in April 2023 before taking the Chair in October that year, Grant has been a key figure in bolstering the group’s commercial standing.

A significant achievement during his leadership was the late 2025 agreement between RMG and ITV, ensuring a four-year broadcasting deal across STV, ITV1, and ITV4.

Grant’s time at the helm coincided with a period of significant instability for British horse racing, marked by the previous year’s Autumn Budget and industry efforts to mitigate the impact of tax increases amid falling viewership.

The Budget, presented by Chancellor Rachel Reeves in November, followed widespread concern within the sector regarding the potential for heavy tax rises.

This uncertainty resulted in racecourse employees striking on 10 September, leading to the cancellation of several scheduled meetings. 

During this time, the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) clashed with the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) over the lack of coordination regarding the strikes, which threatened to damage the rapport between racecourses and betting firms.

Ultimately, the Budget increased the Remote Gaming Duty (RGD) to 40% starting April 2026 and the General Betting Duty (GBD) to 25% from next March, though the tax on horse race betting remained at 15%.

RMG and Grant were central to these industry developments during his chairmanship. 

Regarding his departure, Grant stated: “Following much thought, I have decided that the conclusion of my initial term is the appropriate time to end my chairmanship at RMG, particularly given my growing professional obligations and travel requirements in the US. 

“It has been a true honor to lead the organization over the past three years. CEO Nick Mills and the executive team are doing an excellent job for our shareholders.

“We have refined our strategic focus, enhanced our leadership, and built upon a solid base. I am especially thankful to our shareholders for their confidence and to the Board of Directors for their vital contributions.

“RMG possesses great momentum and a solid foundation, and I am certain the company will thrive in its upcoming chapter.”

Nick Mills, who took over as CEO in October 2024, commented: “Conor’s guidance has been essential in fortifying RMG and preparing us for future success. He departs with our gratitude and best wishes.”