The Australian horse racing world has been rocked by the sudden departure of former Melbourne Racing Club chair John Kanga, who has broken his silence to reveal a "vengeful campaign" forced his hand just days before one of the country's most prestigious racing events.
Timing raises eyebrows in racing circles
Kanga's resignation came at the most sensitive time possible - on the eve of the Caulfield Cup, sending shockwaves through Victorian racing circles. The former chairman had been expected to play a prominent role in the weekend's major racing carnival.
"It is with great sadness that I have decided to resign as a director and as chair of the Melbourne Racing Club," Kanga stated in his resignation letter obtained by 7NEWS.com.au.
Personal attacks cited as primary reason
The outgoing chairman didn't mince words when explaining his decision, pointing directly to what he described as a coordinated effort to undermine his position.
"I have been the target of a vengeful campaign designed to cause me and my family personal hurt and to undermine my position as chair," Kanga revealed.
He expressed disappointment that the campaign had succeeded in forcing his departure, noting he had hoped to continue serving the club he clearly holds dear.
Legacy of leadership and transformation
During his tenure, Kanga oversaw significant developments at the Melbourne Racing Club, which operates three of Victoria's premier racecourses:
- Caulfield Racecourse
- Mornington Racecourse
- Sandown Racecourse
His leadership spanned a period of substantial growth and transformation within the organisation, making his abrupt departure all the more surprising to industry observers.
Racing community reacts to sudden news
The timing of the resignation, just before the $5 million Caulfield Cup, has dominated conversation at the track and within racing media. Many are questioning what this means for the stability of the club's leadership during one of its most important racing periods.
"The decision to resign was not taken lightly," Kanga acknowledged, while maintaining his commitment to the club's best interests remained unwavering despite the personal attacks he claims to have endured.
As the racing world turns its attention to the track, the behind-the-scenes drama at one of Australia's most prominent racing institutions continues to unfold, leaving many wondering about the full story behind this shocking resignation.
