GRA rejects allegations of dysfunction and conflicts of interest within its Horse Racing Integrity Division, warning a leading newspaper it may pursue court action to defend its reputation
Mauritius’ Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) has issued a strongly worded response to a recent media report that questioned the effectiveness and independence of the country’s horse racing oversight framework, warning that it may initiate legal proceedings against the publication responsible. The dispute centres on an article published by the local daily L’Express, which raised concerns about the performance of the Horse Racing Integrity Division (HRID), a unit created under the GRA in 2025 to regulate and supervise the island’s horse racing sector.
In a press statement released on 15 January 2026, the GRA said it “does not subscribe to the contents” of the newspaper report and “takes strong exception to the averments and innuendos contained therein.” The regulator added that it reserves the right to take legal action against the owner, publisher, and editor-in-chief of L’Express, signalling that it considers the claims to be damaging to its reputation and potentially defamatory.
The contested article, citing unnamed industry experts, alleged that the HRID is plagued by “structural dysfunctions,” inconsistent application of rules, and disciplinary processes that are often incomplete or legally flawed. It further claimed that certain officials within the division maintain close links with the Mauritius Turf Club (MTC), the historic body that has long dominated local horse racing, raising concerns about possible conflicts of interest and the true independence of the regulator. According to the report, these issues could undermine public confidence in the integrity of racing governance and the credibility of enforcement actions.
The GRA criticised L’Express for failing to seek its comments prior to publication, describing the approach as irresponsible and lacking balance. The authority insisted that the HRID operates strictly within its statutory mandate and in full transparency, and that it continues to discharge its duties “without fear or favour.” While the regulator defended the legal and institutional framework under which the division functions, it did not directly address each of the specific allegations relating to conflicts of interest or the quality of past regulatory decisions.
In response, L’Express stood by its reporting, stating that the article was produced in the public interest and based on factual observations and expert assessments of the racing industry. The newspaper reiterated its role in scrutinising public institutions and invited the GRA to provide a detailed, substantive response through its pages to encourage open and constructive dialogue rather than legal confrontation.
The episode highlights growing tensions between regulators and the media in Mauritius as the gambling and horse racing sectors undergo structural reform. It also underscores the sensitivity surrounding governance, transparency, and public trust in an industry with significant economic and cultural importance to the country.
