Joseph William Saumarez Smith, who died 11 February, 2025, aged 53, was a British businessman, journalist and gambling expert. He was chair of the British Horseracing Authority, the chief executive of Sports Gaming Ltd, a gambling management consultancy, chairman of gambling platform developer Bede Gaming and an investor in numerous online businesses. He was descended from several landed gentry families and the Bridges baronets.
He was born 29 September, 1971, son of John Saumarez Smith (1943-2021), and his wife the former Laura Erith (b 1945).
He was descended from the Most Rev William Saumarez Smith, Archbishop of Sydney (1836-1909), and his wife Florence Deedes (1842- 89), scion of that landed family of Saltwood, and the Smiths of Hammerwood Park (scions of the Smith banking family), and Sir Brook Bridges, 3rd Baronet (1733-91). His great-grandmother was Muriel Hanbury (1878-1948), scion of that landed gentry family of Drumstinchall, formerly of Poles.
In March 2022 Joe Saumarez Smith was appointed the BHA Chair and in December 2022 his term was extended until June 2025.A lifelong lover of racing, he opened his first account with a bookie aged just 12 after seeing racing live for the first time at Sandown Park.His love for a punt was fostered at school, where his teacher taught fractions using odds. There was an outpouring of love for Saumarez Smith and the family he leaves behind on social media after his death was confirmed. ITV Racing presenter Oli Bell was among them, writing: "Joe was a proper gentleman. "Kind, thoughtful, funny, intelligent and a truly great friend to many.
He leaves a widow Wanda (nee Marshall), a son Oliver, and daughter Matilda (born 2004).
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