‘I’d do that’: Former AFL CEO’s Gillon McLachlan’s strongest hint he will join Racing Victoria

Gillon McLachlan has reiterated his love for racing and that if is the chairman’s gig was offered “I’d do that if they wanted me”.

Gillon McLachlan.

Gillon McLachlan has given his strongest indication yet he is set to be appointed the new chairman of Racing Victoria.

Speaking on 7 at Morphettville on Saturday, the former AFL chief executive reiterated his love for racing and that if the RV chairman’s gig was offered “I’d do that if they wanted me”.

“I’ve had an incredible time off after 25 years at the AFL and I’m back talking to people now,” he said.

“I love racing; I’ve got to work the decision around how I pay for my house and my family but if I can make a contribution to racing in that capacity as chair of (Racing Victoria) I’d do that if they wanted me, and it was still available.”

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McLachlan (right) with syndicator Wylie Dalziel at the Warrnambool Carnival on Wednesday.

It is understood McLachlan is Racing Minister Anthony Carbines’ preferred candidate to be the new chairman.

However, McLachlan, who was first mooted as a potential new chairman in August last year, would still need to be voted in by racing clubs in Victoria.

“There’s a bit of water to pass and a few more steps, but I’m a contributor and I love racing, and if someone wanted me to help, I would,” said McLachlan, whose horse A Samurai Mind finished 15th in the SA Derby.

McLachlan was also on course at Warrnambool on Wednesday, where he was more tight-lipped about the RV role.

If McLachlan lands the chairman’s gig, it will essentially pit him head-to-head with his former NRL foe, Peter V’Landys, who is the long-serving chief executive of Racing NSW.

There are three roles to be filled on the RV board following the retirements and resignations of Brian Kruger, Mike Hirst, and Greg Nichols.

READ | ‘Out of their depth’: Owners boss applauds exit of Racing Victoria CEO

RV is also on the hunt for a new chief executive after Andrew Jones quit last month following a controversial 21-month period.

It is still unclear when Jones finishes in the role.

RV chief operating officer Aaron Morrison will transition to be interim CEO.

Originally published as ‘I’d do that’: Former AFL CEO’s Gillon McLachlan’s strongest hint he will join Racing Victoria