The UKs horse racing governing body, the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), has made a significant move to protect the sport’s honesty by naming Chris Watts as its inaugural Head of Integrity Assurance.

Watts joins the BHA with a wealth of knowledge gained from his thirty years with the London Metropolitan Police, where he held the position of Detective Superintendent in both homicide and major crime divisions. He is also well-versed in the field of sports integrity, having recently held the post of Anti-Corruption Manager for the England and Wales Cricket Board. In this capacity, he played a key role in combating corruption within cricket and developed his expertise in working with prominent organizations throughout the sporting realm.

“My involvement in sports integrity over the past six years has provided me with a solid understanding of the BHA’s Integrity Department,” Watts remarked, emphasizing his familiarity with the tasks that lie ahead. “Horses have been a lifelong love; I am passionate about the sport, and I eagerly anticipate utilizing my abilities and background in this new position.”

Watts’ notable credentials also include affiliation with the Sports Betting Group and co-chairmanship of the Sports Integrity Forum, demonstrating his profound dedication to fair competition.

Brant Dunshea, Chief Regulatory Officer at the BHA, conveyed his excitement about the appointment, saying, “We are thrilled to welcome someone of Chris’s caliber to this crucial strategic position. His vast experience in intelligence, investigation, and sports integrity will be incredibly beneficial to us.”

The UK Jockey Club (BHA) has named Chris Savill as its first Executive Director of Probity and Oversight, according to a statement released on its online platform.