Latest News
IHRB and BHA Confirm New Equine Anti-Doping & Medication Control Initiative
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB) and British Horseracing Authority (BHA) announced a new equine anti-doping & medication control initiative, underpinning their common commitment to the regulation of medicine use and zero tolerance of doping in horseracing on both sides of the Irish Sea.
Out of Competition Testing (OOCT) is a critical component of an effective, modern anti-doping strategy in sport. Both jurisdictions have increased OOCT in recent years, increasing access to and testing of Thoroughbreds at all stages of their careers. Building on this and reflecting their shared focus on participant safety and wellbeing, and the integrity of horseracing, the IHRB and BHA are now formally conducting joint OOCT operations across both jurisdictions. The inspections commenced last week with almost 250 samples taken from more than 120 horses that are entered for the upcoming Cheltenham Festival in an operation across 14 training premises in Ireland over the last two days, which saw the Head of Equine Regulation, Safety and Welfare and a Senior Veterinary Officer from the BHA join forces with the IHRB’s Deputy Heads of Veterinary Operations and Policy and other IHRB Authorised Officers.
The IHRB and BHA have agreed that when working jointly in Ireland, they will be operating under IHRB Standard Operating Procedures, and all samples will be considered as IHRB samples. When IHRB Veterinary Officers operate in Britain, it will be under BHA protocols and BHA jurisdiction. In both instances, there will be transparent exchange of any adverse results or screening findings that arise from these tests, with all samples being tested by LGC Laboratory, one of six laboratories worldwide which is recognised as a referenced laboratory by the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities.
Dr Lynn Hillyer, Chief Veterinary Officer for the IHRB, said: “The IHRB Strategy 2024-2027 commits us to close engagement with international horseracing bodies and benchmarking ourselves against best international practice. This new venture shows stakeholders and the racing public that we collaborate as professionals across both sides of the Irish Sea, sharing best practice and resources and demonstrating equally stringent regulatory processes and standards to the extent that our anti-doping and medication control programmes are interoperable.
“We are delighted to be collaborating with our BHA colleagues in this way and see it as a positive step forward that reinforces the point that there is no room for anything other than the highest standards of integrity and welfare in either jurisdiction.”
James Given, Director of Equine Regulation, Safety and Welfare said: “The BHA welcomes the collaboration with the IHRB to demonstrate to stakeholders and the public that horses running from either side of the Irish sea in each other’s races do so under the same level of scrutiny.
“Not only will our Medication Control and Anti-Doping (MCAD) team have access to more information about visiting horses, but there will be opportunities for our wider team to share ideas and best practice in other areas of our work.
“Like the IHRB, this is aligned with our aims around international collaboration, the response to racecourse accidents and the overall improvement of equine safety and welfare.”
eSports
The World of Esports Unites: 136 Nations Registered for 2025 Season
The International Esports Federation (IESF) is thrilled to announce a major milestone as 136 nations have officially registered for the National Qualifiers of the 2025 esports season. This record-breaking level of participation underscores the remarkable growth and global appeal of esports, uniting athletes and fans from every corner of the world under one shared passion.
The National Qualifiers, which commenced on January 15, 2025, mark the start of an exciting journey for millions of athletes. Competing across a diverse range of PC, mobile, and console titles, these athletes are fighting for the opportunity to represent their nations on the largest stage of esports.
Highlighting the significance of this achievement, IESF General Secretary Boban Totovski stated:
“The participation of 136 Member Federations in this year’s National Qualifiers is an extraordinary accomplishment. It reflects the deep passion, dedication, and unity within the global esports community. We eagerly anticipate witnessing the emergence of this year’s national champions and the incredible talent that will define the 2025 season.”
As IESF celebrates its 16-year legacy, the 2025 season is another step forward in showcasing esports as a powerful unifying force. The federation remains committed to supporting the growth of the esports ecosystem, encouraging the next generation of athletes, and celebrating the diversity within the global esports community.
The 2025 season will bring nations together to honor the competitive spirit and creativity of esports. With 136 nations involved, IESF reaffirms its dedication to fostering collaboration, inspiring excellence, and showcasing the exceptional talent of athletes from all over the world.
The journey to an unforgettable year in esports has begun, as IESF continues to bring the world closer through the shared passion for competitive gaming.
The post The World of Esports Unites: 136 Nations Registered for 2025 Season appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Latest News
Exclusive Collaboration: Digitain and Museum LEGENDS: The Home of Football Presented by LALIGA
Digitain announces an extraordinary partnership with the Museum LEGENDS
Digitain, is proud to announce an extraordinary partnership with the Museum LEGENDS, presented by LaLiga, debuting at ICE Barcelona 2025. As pioneers of this unique concept, Digitain is bringing football history to life by hosting an exclusive pop-up museum right at the heart of its stand 5J30.
For the first time ever, visitors will have the opportunity to marvel at iconic memorabilia from football legends and timeless icons, including Pele, Maradona, Messi, Ronaldo, Figo, and many more. This once-in-a-lifetime experience will showcase treasured items that define the legacy of the world’s greatest footballers.
The Museum area at Digitain Stand will be open to the public from January 20th to 22nd, 2025. Whether you’re a fan or simply curious, this exhibit is must-see.
Laura Valdeolivas, CEO of LEGENDS: “We are thrilled to partner with Digitain for this groundbreaking initiative. Bringing the rich history of football legends to life at ICE Barcelona 2025 aligns with our mission to celebrate the beautiful game and its icons. This collaboration with Digitain represents an innovative way to connect fans and industry professionals with football’s storied past.”
Aregnaz Hakobyan, CMO of Digitain Group: “Digitain has always been at the forefront of innovation, and this exclusive partnership with the Museum of Legends powered by LaLiga exemplifies our vision of creating unique, memorable experiences. Hosting this pop-up museum is not just about showcasing history; it’s about inspiring fans and celebrating the legacy of football legends. We can’t wait to welcome visitors to our stand at ICE Barcelona.”
Don’t miss out on this groundbreaking collaboration and the opportunity to explore the magic of football history.
The post Exclusive Collaboration: Digitain and Museum LEGENDS: The Home of Football Presented by LALIGA appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Latest News
BGC Announces AGM Date and Speaker Lineup for 2025
Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has announced that their AGM 2025 will take place on Thursday, February 27, with a stand out line up of speakers.
Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross, Shadow Secretary of State Stuart Andrew MP and Gambling Commission CEO Andrew Rhodes, are all confirmed to speak at the event, hosted at a top central London venue.
The BGC’s AGM 2025, which boasts the strapline, Making a Difference, will also hear from industry leaders from across the BGC’s diverse and growing membership, as operators once again join to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the sector.
Following on from last year’s hugely successful AGM, this year the focus will be on how BGC members can work together to deliver the White Paper, boost the economy, continue providing entertainment for their customers, as well as raising standards.
Registration for the AGM 2025 is open now, with BGC CEO Grainne Hurst encouraging members to sign up soon to secure their spot.
She said: “The BGC AGM is always a major highlight for our sector, and I am absolutely delighted to confirm such an outstanding line up of keynote speakers at this year’s AGM.
“I also want to say a huge thank you to Baroness Twycross, Stuart Andrew and Andrew Rhodes, for taking time out of their diaries to attend.
“On behalf of our members, and the tens of thousands of jobs they support, I want to say how much we value their vital engagement with industry.
“The Government has set out a bold mission to deliver growth, jobs and investment, and I know our members, championed by the BGC, have a critical role to play delivering on that challenge, across the UK.
“Our theme and strapline for this year’s AGM is Making a Difference, and as we move forward into a new era, post the publication of the White Paper, it could not be more fitting.
“After a long period of instability, we are looking forward to working with Government to deliver the outstanding policies from the White Paper so our sector can get back to what it does best, making a positive difference for their millions of customers, and the UK economy.
“We have much to get on with, and the AGM is the perfect place to set the tone for the rest of the year. I encourage everyone to sign up soon, and I look forward to welcoming you to our AGM in February.”
The post BGC Announces AGM Date and Speaker Lineup for 2025 appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
-
BF Games7 days ago
BF Games Makes Strategic Entry into Brazilian Market
-
Australia5 days ago
Regulating the Game Announced New Money Laundering, Terrorism Financing Masterclass at 2025 Conference
-
Asia6 days ago
Sands China Launches Alipay Tap! in Macao
-
Bragg Gaming Group6 days ago
Bragg Gaming is Live in Brazil’s Regulated iGaming Market
-
JVSpinBet6 days ago
MightyTips signs partnership deal with JVSpinBet
-
Africa5 days ago
Soft2Bet takes its first steps into Africa with a multi-year Turnkey deal with media leader Channels TV
-
FBC Melgar6 days ago
Stake Peru secures official sponsorship of FBC Melgar
-
Asia6 days ago
Natural8 India welcomes 2025 in style with Natural8 India X APT Manila Classic 2025