Mauritius Gambling Regulator Threatens Legal Action Over Horse Racing Report
The Mauritius Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) has strongly criticised a recent report published by local newspaper L’Express, disputing its findings on horse racing oversight and signalling potential legal action against the publication.
In a press release dated 15 January 2026, the GRA stated it “does not subscribe to the contents of the publication referred to above and takes strong exception to the averments and innuendos contained therein,” and expressly reserved “its right to take such legal action as it may be advised against the owner, publisher and editor‑in‑chief of L’Express.”
The L’Express article, citing unnamed racing experts, claimed that the Horse Racing Integrity Division (HRID), established by the GRA in 2025, suffers from “structural dysfunctions, erratic rule enforcement, inconsistent sanctions and disciplinary investigations often deemed incomplete or legally flawed.” It also alleged conflicts of interest, stating that several HRID officials have “strong ties to the Mauritius Turf Club (MTC),” potentially undermining the division’s independence and public trust.
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Responding to the report, the GRA criticised L’Express for failing to seek comment before publication, describing the article as “cavalier” and emphasizing that the HRID operates “within the parameters of its statutory framework, in all transparency and will continue to do so without fear or favour.” The GRA, however, did not directly address the specific allegations regarding flawed regulatory decisions or potential conflicts of interest.
L’Express has defended its reporting, stating it was “based on facts and observations… in the public interest” and reaffirmed its editorial mission to scrutinise public institutions. The newspaper invited the GRA to respond substantively in its pages to foster “constructive dialogue.”
