Former Member of Parliament, Sir Philip Davies, Assumes Chair Position at Greyhound Board of Great Britain
In a significant move for the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB), former Member of Parliament (MP) for Shipley, West Yorkshire, Sir Philip Davies, has been appointed as the new chair, effective September 1, 2025. Sir Philip is succeeding Jeremy Cooper, who will step down after seven years in the role [1][2][3].
As a staunch supporter of greyhound racing, Sir Philip brings a deep understanding of the sport and a commitment to its future. His political background includes serving on the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee and the Panel of Chairs, as well as leadership roles in the gambling sector [1][2][5].
Sir Philip's appointment comes amidst challenging times for greyhound racing, with regulatory pressures and calls for bans in Scotland and Wales. The GBGB is confident that Sir Philip's leadership will address these issues strategically [2]. Mark Bird, the GBGB's CEO, who will continue in his role for another two years, expressed optimism about Sir Philip's focus on securing favorable deals and stability for the sport [2].
While specific details about Sir Philip's personal views on greyhound racing are not widely documented, the GBGB praises him as an ally dedicated to safeguarding and advancing the sport's interests [1]. His impact is expected to centre on navigating regulatory challenges, leveraging his leadership and industry experience, and promoting the sustainability and growth of greyhound racing in Great Britain [1][2][4].
In addition to Sir Philip's appointment, the GBGB has also welcomed Tony Brealey, Dave Baldwin, Katie Bennison, and Kim Sanzone as owner practitioner director, and other members, respectively [6].
Sir Philip's connection with the horseracing and bookmaking industries, stemming from his time as an MP and his current role as chairman of Star Sports Group, is expected to bring political and industry experience to the GBGB chair position [2][4][5].
However, greyhound racing is currently facing intense backlash due to its use of animals and allegations of cruelty. Sir Philip has praised greyhound racing as a fantastic sport ingrained in the essence of Great Britain and expressed a hope to make more people realize its beauty [7].
In response to the ban on greyhound racing in Wales, the GBGB strongly opposes the move, emphasising the welfare strategy in place to ensure the well-being of the animals involved in the sport [8]. The GBGB's CEO, Mark Bird, believes that regulation would be the most effective way to protect the welfare of racing greyhounds and the integrity and prosperity of the sport going forward [9].
References:
- The Racing Post
- Sky Sports
- The Guardian
- The Telegraph
- The Times
- GBGB Press Release
- BBC News
- Wales Online
- GBGB Welfare Strategy
Sir Philip Davies, with his deep understanding and commitment to the sport of greyhound racing, will bring his political and industry experience to his new role as the GBGB chair, starting September 1, 2025. His extensive background in the horseracing and bookmaking industries, as well as his time as an MP, will aid in navigating regulatory challenges and promoting the sustainability and growth of greyhound racing in Great Britain.
