The Board of Directors of the Jockey Club, chaired by His Royal Highness Prince Bandar bin Khalid Al Faisal, issued a significant administrative decision appointing His Highness Prince Salman bin Abdullah bin Salman bin Mohammed Al Saud as the club's Chief Executive Officer, in addition to his continued role as Secretary General of the Board. This decision was made during the Board's seventeenth meeting, held on Thursday evening, the 17th of Ramadan, 1447 AH (corresponding to March 5, 2026), where the Board also approved the resignation request submitted by the former Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Ziyad bin Saad Al Muqrin, and appointed him as an advisor to the Board in recognition of his expertise.
The administrative vision held by Prince Salman bin Abdullah
The selection of Prince Salman bin Abdullah for this leadership position is based on his distinguished professional and academic career. His Highness possesses extensive experience in corporate governance and the management of boards and committees. He holds a Master's degree in International Law and Negotiation from the United States, which enhances his ability to lead the club according to the latest international standards. His Highness previously worked at the Diriyah Gate Development Authority, in addition to his nearly nine years of academic experience and his prominent role as Secretary-General of the Equestrian Authority's Board of Directors, where he contributed directly to developing governance frameworks and organizing the work of its subcommittees.
Horse Racing Club: A legacy of history and an ambition for the future
This decision is particularly significant given the historical and strategic importance of the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia. The club is not merely a sporting entity, but rather the custodian of a rich cultural heritage deeply intertwined with the history of the Kingdom and its unification by the founding King Abdulaziz – may God have mercy on him. Equestrian sports in the Kingdom are undergoing a historic transformation in line with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to enhance the quality of life and elevate the sport to become a significant economic and tourism driver.
The appointment of a young and legally and administratively qualified leadership team is expected to enhance the club's international presence, especially given the Kingdom's continued success in hosting major global events such as the Saudi Cup, the world's richest horse race. Focusing on corporate governance in the coming phase will help solidify transparency and attract further global investments and partnerships to this vital sector.
A new phase of development and empowerment
The Board of Directors has set the effective date for these decisions as Sunday, Shawwal 10, 1447 AH, corresponding to March 29, 2026. In this context, Prince Salman bin Abdullah expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him, affirming his commitment to working diligently with the Board and the Executive Management to continue the journey of achievements. The Board and His Highness also thanked Mr. Ziyad Al-Muqrin for his dedicated efforts during his tenure, wishing everyone success in serving the sport of our forefathers and elevating it to international standards.
