Melbourne Racing Club (MRC) chairman John Kanga has announced his resignation, effective immediately, just days before the start of the Caulfield Cup Carnival.
Kanga, who made history last year as the first Greek Australian to lead the MRC, said the decision was made to protect the Club from distraction following what he described as “a series of public attacks directed at me personally.”
“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,” Kanga said in a MRC announcement.
“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.”
Kanga, a long-time racing enthusiast and business leader, said he was proud of what had been achieved during his tenure, including securing the future of Sandown Racecourse, restoring the Caulfield mounting yard, and saving more than $250 million by stopping an “unnecessary” grandstand redevelopment in favour of a more practical, member-focused plan.
“We strengthened the Club’s financial position, reduced debt, and moved forward with renewed commercial confidence,” he said.
“The Club is in a strong position for the future, with outstanding leadership and a talented team across all levels.”
The MRC Committee has accepted Kanga’s resignation and announced that Vice Chairman Cameron Fisher will step into the role of Chairman, ensuring “leadership continuity and stability” ahead of the Spring Carnival.
Acting CEO Tanya Fullarton praised Kanga’s contribution and said his decision reflected his respect for the Club and its members.
“John’s decision to step aside reflects his deep respect for the Club,” Fullarton said. “We thank him for his service and wish him all the very best for the future.”
Kanga’s resignation marks an abrupt end to a historic chapter for the MRC. When he was elected in 2024, he told Neos Kosmos that his vision was to unite tradition with innovation, and to make racing more inclusive and financially sustainable.
The club said it remains focused on delivering the Caulfield Cup Carnival and continuing to serve its members and the broader racing community.
Neos Kosmos has reached out to John Kanga for comment.
