Parker, a regulatory and sports law specialist, will take up his role as an Independent Non-Executive Regulatory Director on 1 January 2022. He will replace Sir Paul Stephenson, who joined the BHA Board in 2015, and whose term is set to expire on 31 December 2021.

“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. “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.”

Parker is a Senior Adviser at the Financial Conduct Authority and has overseen several investigations involving integrity issues, while he has also undertaken judicial roles in criminal trials and financial services cases.

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.”