The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has tapped John Ferguson, a former trainer and senior industry figure, to fill the outgoing director’s position.

Ferguson boasts a long career in racing, having worked his way up from stable staff to racing manager, owner and breeder.

Highlights of his career include serving as an assistant trainer to Sir Michael Stoute before he trained 287 National Hunt winners himself.

He also worked as a bloodstock agent, helping clients locate thoroughbred horses for breeding purposes. In this capacity, he established Natalma Bloodstock in 2021.

As its name suggests, Natalma is a bloodstock investment company, which has broodmares in Europe, the US and Australia.

Ferguson also represented Darley and Godolphin, a horseracing organisation founded by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, between 1994 and 2017.

“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,” said Ferguson.

“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 welcomed Ferguson on board, commenting: “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.”