The British horseracing community is in mourning the unexpected death of Paul Darling OBE, the Chairman of the Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB). Darling passed away at 64 after suffering a heart attack at the barristers’ inn of Middle Temple, London. The announcement of his death was made on Sunday by the HBLB board. 

Having been a vital member of the Levy Board since 2008, Darling ascended to the role of Chairman in April 2020, navigating the complexities of the betting landscape during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under his guidance, the HBLB played a crucial role in supporting British racing, enabling the resumption of racing activities and securing additional prizemoney to mitigate the financial challenges faced by racecourses during lockdowns. 

The HBLB released a heartfelt statement, highlighting Darling’s immense contributions: “The board members and staff of the Horserace Betting Levy Board are devastated to learn of the sudden death of our chairman, Paul Darling. 

“Paul was a hugely respected and popular colleague and friend. He was devoted to the Levy Board, combining great ability with extraordinary enthusiasm, energy and a sense of fun."

“He was initially a Levy Board member from 2008 to 2014. This, with his past membership of the Tote Board and chairing of the Association of British Bookmakers and the Sports Grounds Safety Authority, contributed to his recognition with an OBE in 2015 for services to safety at sports grounds and to horseracing. He began his chairmanship of the Levy Board in April 2020 in the midst of the Covid-19 outbreak and guided the organisation through the challenges of that period."

“His passing will leave a gap in the lives of everyone at the Levy Board. We will miss him deeply but will remember his love of racing and all that he did for the Levy Board and for the sport over many years. Our thoughts are with his family and in particular his wife Camilla.” reads the HBLB statement. 

Chairman of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) Joe Saumarez Smith emphasized Darling’s vital role in advocating for the sport: “Paul cared deeply about protecting the sport, and his desire to see horseracing flourish was evident in everything he did. His sharp intellect, powerful advocacy, and wise counsel have benefited many in the industry.”  

Julie Harrington, CEO of the BHA, expressed sorrow over the loss of a steadfast ally for the sport, stating: “This is a devastating blow for everyone who knew and worked with him. We owe Paul a huge debt of gratitude.” 

Darling's prominence in the betting industry was further highlighted through his previous roles, including his tenure as chairman of the Association of British Bookmakers (ABB) from 2014 to 2019, and a government-appointed board member of the Levy Board from 2008 to 2014. 

Darling's expertise in commercial law, paired with a dedication to equine welfare, positioned him as a formidable figure in the regulatory landscape affecting betting in the UK. 

His impact extended beyond the HBLB, with remarks from the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) acknowledging his significant presence in the betting world. Executive director Gary Follis described him as a "hugely popular, intelligent, and distinguished figure," while BGC chair Michael Dugher reflected on Darling’s sharp wit and the lasting friendships he forged throughout his career. 

Racecourse Association chief executive David Armstrong underscored Darling's influence within British racing, stating: “Paul was a great friend to British racing and a mentor to those he worked with. His leadership of the HBLB during COVID-19 was imperative as the sport navigated the challenges posed by the pandemic.” 

Paul Darling leaves behind his wife, Dr. Camilla Darling. His legacy will be remembered as both a steward for the betting industry and a passionate advocate for the future of British horseracing.