“The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon” was bestowed upon the ARF Chairman, Mr Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, by the Government of Japan at a Conferment Ceremony hosted by Ambassador Okada Kenichi, Consul-General of Japan in Hong Kong on 2 July 2024.

Mr Engelbrecht-Bresges is the second-ever non-Japanese racing figure to be awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, following Mr Louis Romanet, Chair Emeritus of the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities, who received the same award in 2010.

The Conferment published by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan on 29 April 2024 highlighted that the decoration is in recognition of his contribution to promoting the international development of Japanese horse racing and thoroughbred breeding. 

Delivering remarks upon receiving the honour, Mr Engelbrecht-Bresges said: “I am deeply humbled and grateful to receive this honour as a recognition of my contributions to the Japanese Racing and Breeding industry, as well as to strengthening the relationship between Japan and Hong Kong.”

Mr Engelbrecht-Bresges highlighted the contributions of ARF Members including The Hong Kong Jockey Club and the Japan Racing Association, in representing the interests of the Federation in the global racing industry. He also reserved special appreciation for ARF Vice-Chairman Mr Masayuki Goto.

“We share a commitment to world-class racing and to bringing an Asian voice to the global debate on the future of our sport – in particular through our contributions to the Asian Racing Federation – ensuring Asian racing continues going from strength to strength.