Sir Johnny Weatherby was involved with Ascot for more than 20 years and held the role of Her Majesty’s Representative at the track for nine
15:26, 19 Dec 2025
Tributes have been paid to Sir Johnny Weatherby, a key figure at Ascot racehorse as the late Queen Elizabeth’s right-hand man, following his death aged 66. Weatherby, whose famous family business Weatherbys is the long established provider of administration services for the BHA, was chairman of the firm from 1993.
He was involved at Ascot for more than 20 years, first as a Trustee, then as Her Majesty’s Representative, a role he held for nine years. He also rode, bred and owned racehorses, winning the Foxhunters at the 2019 Cheltenham Festival with Top Wood. A statement from Weatherbys said: “It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of Sir Johnny Weatherby, who died yesterday aged 66 following a life of peerless service to horseracing.
"Sir Johnny was a figure of immense stature within our sport and he will be remembered most by his friends and peers for his energy, foresight, ambition and unwavering dedication to the integrity of the sport.”
Jockeys riding at Ascot on Friday and on Saturday wore black armbands in memory of Weatherby.
The racecourse said: “All of us at Ascot were deeply saddened by the news of Sir Johnny Weatherby’s death.
“Johnny played an immensely important role in Ascot’s history between 1997 and 2020, first as a Trustee, then Chairman and Her Majesty’s Representative.
“Our deepest sympathies go to his entire family but especially to Sophie, Isabella, Jack, Max and Lara.”
BHA chief executive Brant Dunshea said: “Everyone at the BHA is saddened to learn of the death of Sir Johnny Weatherby today and on behalf of us all, I extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends at this tremendously sad time.
“Quite simply, Johnny loved our sport and that great passion was evident in his work across such a broad range of the industry. His love for the horses and those who worked with them was always clear to see and his loss is one that will be keenly felt.”