Billionaire Criticizes Award to Influencer in Horse Racing
Mike Repole, owner of Breeders’ Cup Classic third-place finisher Fierceness, criticized the decision to award the "New Owner of the Year" prize to Griffin Johnson, a social media influencer promoting horse racing in the United States. Repole highlighted a conflict of interest in giving the prize to someone employed to promote the sport.
Griffin Johnson's Role in Promoting Horse Racing
Griffin Johnson is a content creator, actor, singer, and social media influencer with over 14 million followers. Introduced to horse racing through America’s Best Racing’s A Stake in Stardom campaign, Johnson received a share in Kentucky Derby contender Sandman.
His behind-the-scenes videos of Sandman’s campaign reached more than 200 million people and generated over 35 million views. Johnson has since become part-owner of another Grade 2-winning horse.
Recognition and Impact
On Thursday, Johnson was named OwnerView’s 2025 New Owner of the Year. Project manager Gary Falter stated:
“Griffin Johnson has had an incredible impact on horse racing through his social media platforms, helping to create new fans, which will ultimately result in new owners.”
Johnson expressed his gratitude on X (formerly Twitter):
“This has been the best year of my life. Thank you to everyone that dedicates themselves daily to keeping these horses healthy & running for all of us to enjoy. This game has already given me more than I could have ever imagined & I am forever grateful.”
Summary: The decision to honor influencer Griffin Johnson as New Owner of the Year drew criticism for conflict of interest, though his social media presence significantly expanded horse racing's fanbase.
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