Warwick to step down as NZTR Chair as Entain announces leadership change

New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing Chair Russell Warwick will step down from the role at the beginning of August before retiring from the Board following the organisation's Annual General Meeting in November.

The announcement comes as Entain confirmed Chris Haigh will replace Sam Moncur as Managing Director of its New Zealand business, with both changes occurring as New Zealand racing continues through a period of industry reform.

Warwick advised the NZTR Board of his decision this week, saying the increasing demands of the chairmanship alongside his responsibilities as General Manager of Westbury Stud had led him to step aside.

"The demands of the role over recent months, together with my need to focus on my primary role at Westbury Stud, mean I have reluctantly decided to step down as Chair," Warwick said.

"It is my intention to stand down as Chairman at the start of August and to resign as a director at the time of the AGM in November.

"I would like to thank my fellow Board members, the NZTR executive team and all NZTR staff for their extraordinary support and the work they undertake on behalf of our industry.

"Their commitment and professionalism give me great confidence in the future of thoroughbred racing in New Zealand.

"My intention was to give something back to an industry that has given me so much."

Warwick joined the NZTR Board in 2024 after more than 50 years' involvement in the New Zealand thoroughbred industry.

He said he remained committed to supporting the Board over the coming weeks, with providing certainty around funding for the new season and continuing discussions with TAB NZ and the TAB NZ Advisory Committee among the immediate priorities.

"Our work programme includes important strategic initiatives, including Project Stamina, and my priority is to ensure that this momentum continues. While I am stepping aside as Chair, NZTR's day-to-day operations and strategic priorities remain unchanged.

"I remain committed to supporting the Board, management and the wider industry as we continue to deliver the reforms and investments that will strengthen the future of thoroughbred racing."

NZTR Chief Executive Matt Ballesty thanked Warwick for his contribution to the organisation and the wider industry.

"On behalf of the New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing Board, management and staff, I would like to sincerely thank Russell for his outstanding leadership, dedication and commitment to thoroughbred racing," Ballesty said.

"During his time as Chair, Russell has led the organisation through one of the most significant periods of reform and investment in our industry's history and has consistently acted in the best interests of racing and its participants.

"Russell brings deep racing knowledge, commercial experience and integrity to every role he undertakes. He leads with humility, calmness and a genuine passion for the industry. While we fully respect his decision, we are pleased he will continue to contribute as a director during this critical period."

NZTR said a decision on Warwick's successor as Chair would be announced in the coming weeks.

The leadership change follows confirmation that Sam Moncur has left Entain after helping oversee the establishment of the wagering operator's strategic partnership with TAB NZ.

Chris Haigh has been appointed Entain's New Zealand Managing Director, taking responsibility for the company's New Zealand operations while retaining his role as Chief Media Officer for Entain Australia and New Zealand.

Haigh joined Entain in 2023 after senior executive roles with Foxtel Group, Kayo Sports and Fox Sports Australia. Moncur had served as Entain's New Zealand Managing Director since the partnership with TAB NZ commenced in 2023.

Ballesty acknowledged Moncur's contribution and welcomed Haigh to the role.

"I want to acknowledge Sam Moncur, who is moving on from Entain after playing a key role in establishing and strengthening the partnership between Entain and TAB NZ," Ballesty said.

"Sam has been a strong supporter of New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing, and I thank him for his contribution and wish him all the best for the future.

"At the same time, I'd like to welcome Chris Haigh as Entain's new New Zealand Managing Director. Chris's appointment reflects Entain's continued focus on New Zealand, and I look forward to working with him as we continue to build a strong partnership that delivers for our industry."