ITBF Chair Rausing Retires, Grimthorpe Named Successor

The International Thoroughbred Breeders' Federation on May 10 concluded its highly successful 2026 conference, held over five days in France in a dual location event (Deauville and Paris). Representatives from 25 of its 29 member countries and umbrella associations (across six continents) participated. ITBF's chairman from 2017 to 2026, Kirsten Rausing, stood down from office at the general meeting. CEO Sarah Carmichael thanked the outgoing chairman on behalf of the membership for her unwavering commitment, dedication, and passion for the betterment of the global Thoroughbred breeding industry, resulting in significantly moving ITBF forward under her outstanding leadership. The membership ratified the ITBF executive committee's elected incoming chairman, Lord Teddy Grimthorpe. Rausing said, "The ITBF's work to protect our industry and its participants, equine and human, will continue apace for many years to come. As I retire from my post as ITBF chairman, I feel sure that the Federation is in very safe hands with my successor." In his acceptance speech, Lord Grimthorpe offered, "I am deeply honored that you (the membership) have entrusted the chairmanship to me. I will endeavor to ensure that the ITBF flourishes and continues to safeguard and uphold the values of the high standards required for a healthy bloodstock breeding industry throughout the world." The close of the general meeting was marked by a fitting and moving film tribute to Sam Sheppard, founder of ITBF, formerly the IInternational Breeders' Meeting, who died in February. ITBF will continue working to advance and protect the interests of Thoroughbred breeders throughout the world. Its next general meeting will be hosted by India in 2028 from Jan. 31 to Feb. 6.