Shock as Melbourne Racing Club chair John Kanga steps down on eve of Caulfield Cup Carnival

Melbourne Racing Club chair John Kanga has resigned from his position on the eve of the Caulfield Cup Carnival, effective immediately.

The biggest eight days on the MRC’s calendar begins with the Caulfield Guineas on Saturday.

“In recent weeks there has been a series of public attacks directed at me personally,” Kanga said via a statement on Friday.

“While I completely reject the nature and accuracy of those attacks, I do not want them to distract from the club, its members, or the excitement of the Caulfield Cup Carnival.

“My decision to step aside is about putting the interests of the club and the broader racing industry ahead of my own.

“The MRC is bigger than any one individual, and I want to ensure the focus remains where it belongs – on racing, our members, staff, and delivering a world-class Spring Carnival.”

Kanga appeared at the Caulfield Cup Carnival media day on Wednesday but was absent from the main launch event on Thursday night.

“It has been a privilege to lead the Melbourne Racing Club and to work alongside so many dedicated people who care deeply about racing,” his statement added.

“We successfully secured the future of Sandown Racecourse, ensuring it remains a vital part of Victorian racing; we restored the Caulfield mounting yard to its rightful place at the heart of the course; and we saved more than $250 million by halting an unnecessary proposed grandstand redevelopment and delivering a more practical, member-focused plan for Caulfield’s future.

“Under my leadership, the club has also strengthened its financial position — moving decisively to reduce debt and move forward with renewed commercial confidence.

“The club is in a strong position for the future, with outstanding leadership and a talented team across all levels. I wish the committee, our members, and our staff every success in the years ahead.”

Deputy chair Cameron Fisher has already been confirmed as Kanga’s successor as the new chair.

Acting CEO Tanya Fullarton thanked the outgoing chair for his services.

“John’s decision to step aside reflects his deep respect for the Club and its members. We thank him for his service and wish him all the very best for the future,” she said.

“The committee’s appointment of Cameron Fisher as chairman ensures strong leadership and continuity as we head into the Caulfield Cup Carnival.

“The Melbourne Racing Club remains focused on delivering an outstanding Caulfield Cup Carnival and continuing to serve its members and the broader racing community.”

Kanga is the part-owner of four-year-old gelding Feroce along with Collingwood coach Craig McRae, list manager Justin Leppistch, and former Bulldogs forward Tory Dickson.