Tim Husbands to step down as Leopardstown CEO after transformative tenure

By | 08 Feb 2025 | Mumbai

In a major development, Leopardstown Racecourse will bid farewell to its Chief Executive, Tim Husbands, in April 2025, as he steps down after a five-year tenure that saw the track navigate significant challenges and achieve notable growth. Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) confirmed the impending departure, praising his leadership and contributions to Irish racing.

Husbands took the helm at Leopardstown in January 2020, arriving with a strong background in leisure and tourism, having previously served as CEO of the Titanic Experience in Belfast. His time at Leopardstown coincided with the unprecedented challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, but under his leadership, the racecourse successfully emerged from the crisis, returning to full operation with increasing attendance figures at major festivals and a boost in commercial sponsorship.

A key aspect of his tenure was overseeing several capital development projects that enhanced racegoer facilities, ensuring Leopardstown maintained its reputation as one of Europe’s premier tracks. The benefits of these improvements were particularly evident at flagship events such as the Christmas and Dublin Racing Festivals.

Husbands also played a pivotal role in bolstering Leopardstown’s international profile. Under his watch, upgrades to the irrigation system were implemented, while last year, the racecourse welcomed two Japanese runners to the Irish Champions Festival—a move that reinforced the Irish Champion Stakes’ place among the world’s top ten Group 1 races.

Reflecting on his time in charge, Husbands expressed gratitude for the support he received from the industry and highlighted the collaborative spirit that defines Irish racing. “It was a real privilege for me to lead Leopardstown Racecourse over the last five years, and I have been very proud of our achievements during that time – it is very much a team effort at the racecourse,” he said. “Leopardstown is one of the top tracks in Europe, and I am glad that I have played my part in maintaining that position.”

HRI Racecourses CEO Paul Dermody paid tribute to Husbands’ tenure, acknowledging his expertise in event management and his dedication to enhancing the customer experience. “Tim brought a high level of experience and a keen focus on customer experience to his role at Leopardstown, and he certainly delivered in so many key areas,” Dermody said. “Everyone at HRI wishes him the very best in the years ahead and thanks him for his contribution to the industry.”

The search for Husbands’ successor will begin in the coming weeks, with Leopardstown set to enter a new era following his departure.

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