Former AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan has been touted as the favourite to land the role of chairman for Racing Victoria.
As reported by Racenet, McLachlan has reportedly edged out more than 10 other candidates considered for the role and is now the preferred man for the job. In August 2023, McLachlan was named as a 'likely replacement' for the former chairman, Brian Kruger.
McLachlan was elected CEO of the AFL in June of 2014 before handing over the reins after the 2023 AFL season. Former AFL executive Andrew Dillon was named as his successor.
The former CEO had many achievements in his time at the AFL, most notably the launch of the AFLW along with ensuring the league stayed afloat during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additionally, McLachlan implemented Gather Round in 2023 before announcing it would return to South Australia in 2024 after its success. Under his tenure, attendance has gone up, along with membership numbers league-wide and television viewership.
McLachlan was also responsible for the largest sports broadcast deal in Australian sports history, with the AFL securing TV rights until the end of 2031. The league has a $4.5 billion deal through Channel Seven, Foxtel and Telstra, despite bids from Stan, Paramount and Channel Ten.
Whether McLachlan accepts the role is yet to be seen, but he is seemingly the favourite to land the position.
