Louis Romanet Dies At 78

[Wandering Eyes]

Louis Romanet, former president of the International Federation of Horse Racing Authorities, has died. Also a past director of France Galop, he was 78.

Romanet's family has a long association with French racing, leading the French racing institution from 1907-2007. First the Société d'Encouragement, responsible for Flat racing, where his great-uncle Maurice, his grandfather René and his father Jean succeeded one another. In 1995, Louis helmed France Galop, which integrated Flat and jumps racing under a single umbrella until he retired from his post in 2007.

He joined the Société d'Encouragement in 1968 to bring in computer technology, and rose through the ranks to become its managing director in 1986 following the retirement of his father, Jean. Romanet served as president of the IFHA from its creation in 1994 until 2021.

One of the foremost authorities in international racing, Romanet contributed to the work of numerous racing organisations and promoted the French model on the global stage. Those who knew him remember him as a consummate expert in all areas of the industry, with a deep knowledge of its sporting, economic, social and political dimensions.

Guillaume de Saint-Seine, president de France Galop, said, “With the passing of Louis Romanet, the French racing industry loses one of its great figures. Through his commitment, his unparalleled knowledge of our industry and his family's century-long dedication to the governance of racing, he has left a lasting imprint on the history of France Galop.  His vision extended to the international stage through his work with the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA), which played a key role in showcasing French excellence beyond our borders. Personally, and on behalf of the entire institution and everyone at France Galop, I extend my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.”

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