Darley takeover given all clear

The biggest bloodstock deal in the history of Australian racing is set to proceed by this Friday, with Dubai-based Darley's takeover of Woodlands given final approval.

The Foreign Investment Review Board has approved Darley's purchase of Woodlands, clearing the way for the deal to be finalised immediately. It means a reported $500 million windfall for Woodlands owner Bob Ingham while Darley, one of the world's biggest thoroughbred operations, now has a significant stake in Australian racing having taken over the biggest stables in Australia.

From this weekend, the majority of the horses who now race in the famous all cerise colours of the Woodlands Stud Syndicate will race in the maroon and white, Sheikh Mohammed's ownership and racing colours.

However, those horses will continue to be trained by Peter Snowden, who took over as Woodlands trainer last year following John Hawkes' decision to go out on his own.

The Middle Eastern operation, headed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is a massive player in world racing and breeding.

"I am delighted to be making this commitment to Australian racing, to people who share my passion for thoroughbreds. I welcome the team from Woodlands and look forward to developing the champions of the future," he said.

It marks the end of an era for Ingham, who together with his brother Jack revolutionised racing and breeding in Australia. He will still have a select few horses racing in the all cerise, which will be trained by Chris Waller.

"It has been a pleasure working with the dedicated people at Woodlands Stud and Crown Lodge. I thank them dearly for the wonderful job they have done over many years. I wish Sheikh Mohammed every success in the future," he said in a statement.