Gabriel Resigns as Dubai Racing Club Executive

Frank Gabriel Jr., a longtime racing secretary and racetrack executive in the U.S. and abroad, has resigned as executive director of racing of the Dubai Racing Club.

Gabriel, 65, serviced a couple of stints in racing departments with the Dubai Racing Club, first as CEO until 2014, and then after a short stay at the New York Racing Association as racing secretary, returned there, where he held his most recent position. Previously, he worked in racing departments at Arlington International Racecourse, at NYRA in 1998-99, and at other American racetracks, primarily in Florida and the northeast.

"After 15 years with the Dubai Racing Club, I have resigned from my position as executive director of racing," Gabriel said in a statement. "I have thoroughly appreciated my experience and would like to thank His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for the opportunity (to) do so. A special gratitude to all the staff I have worked with over the years who made our team-driven goals achievable at DRC. I will be returning to the U.S. with my wife Christine to enjoy our time and our home in Bonita Springs, Florida."

While in Dubai, Gabriel oversaw the development of Meydan Racecourse, which opened in 2010, replacing Nad Al Sheba Racecourse. Meydan hosts the Dubai World Cup Sponsored by Emirates Airline (G1), whose 25th running this year was canceled due to COVID-19.

Gabriel's father, Frank Gabriel Sr., was also a racing secretary. The elder Gabriel died in 2005.