FERGUSON STANDS DOWN
GODOLPHIN’S chief executive and racing manager, John Ferguson, has fallen on his sword and left the organisation.
Ferguson felt his position was untenable following recent media reports suggesting turmoil in the Godolphin operation.
Mainly his relationship with trainer Saeed Bin Suroor which had broken down irrevocably.
In a newspaper report earlier this week the Newmarket handler made clear he no longer reports to Ferguson and was hot happy having been forced to use James Doyle as a retained rider last year.
Godolphin’s statement read: “After 25 years serving His Highness Sheikh Mohammed in a number of key roles in horseracing and other sectors, it has been announced today that John Ferguson will step down as chief executive and racing manager of Godolphin’s global operations.”
Commenting on the decision, Ferguson said: “Given the recent articles in the media, it was clear my position was untenable.
“In times such as these, what matters is the future, and my stepping down will allow everyone ® to draw a line under things and move forward. This course of action is best for everyone.
“All the staff at Godolphin are wonderful people who work so hard for the greater good and I want to thank each and every one.
“His Highness Sheikh Mohammed has given me so much over the years – trust, opportunities, amazing experiences and, perhaps most importantly, his kindness and counsel. For all these things I thank him with all my heart.”
Joe Osborne, the current managing director of Godolphin in Ireland, will take up the position of interim chief executive of Godolphin’s global operation.
Osborne said: “We are committed to our objective of achieving success for His Highness Sheikh Mohammed and his family.
“Our thanks go to John Ferguson for his long-standing contribution to Godolphin and Darley.’’ ACAPULCO is one of six for Aidan O’Brien among the 19 that have stood their ground for Sunday’s Group Three Ballyogan Stakes at the Curragh.
Buying Trouble, Florida Times and Kassia are among the seven that could travel from England.