Velazquez stepping down as Jockeys' Guild co-chair, will remain on board of directors

Johnny Velazquez, who has served more than 20 years as chairman of the Jockeys’ Guild, will step down from that position, the Guild announced in a press release Thursday.

Velazquez, who since 2018 has been co-chair of the Guild along with fellow Hall of Fame rider Mike Smith, will remain active as a member of the Guild, according to the release. Smith will now be joined by Hall of Fame rider Javier Castellano as co-chair of the Guild.

“There are absolutely no words to adequately recognize Johnny Velazquez and all that he has done,” Smith said. “On behalf of the Guild and our members, we cannot thank him enough for his unwavering commitment, endless time, and relentless effort, not only on behalf of the jockeys and the Guild, but the industry as a whole. Although Johnny is stepping down as co-chair, he will remain on the board [of directors] and be active in the organization.”

Said Velazquez: “I am proud of the strides that have been made in the areas of respect for the riders and the benefits that have been achieved over the years I presided as chairman and as co-chairman of the Guild. I look forward to being a part of the Guild and helping any way I can as a new generation takes the helm.”

In addition to Smith and Castellano being elected co-chairs, Guild members elected Joe Bravo, James Flores, and Julien Leparoux as co-vice chairs; Tyler Gaffalione as secretary; and Julien Leparoux as treasurer. Joining Velazquez on the board of directors will be Alex Birzer, James Graham, and Rodney Prescott.

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