THE team at Derrinstown Stud in Maynooth are looking forward to discussing plans for Shadwell’s Irish operation with Sheikh Hamdan’s daughter, Sheikha Hissa, this autumn.

There was been some uncertainty over the future of Shadwell’s European and American arms since Sheikh Hamdan died in March, aged 75. Prior to Sheikh Hamdan’s passing, the Shadwell group had announced plans to shut down its Australian and South African operations, while it appears to be gradually reducing its numbers in Europe. Shadwell’s British headquarters is the Nunnery Stud and its Irish base is Derrinstown.

Stephen Collins, general manager at Derrinstown, said: “Her Highness Sheikha Hissa Bint Hamdan Al Maktoum’s announcement this week that she is taking over as head of the global Shadwell operation is most welcomed.

“Sheikha Hissa is a very accomplished horse woman and is passionate about continuing the legacy of her late father, Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum, and also the wonderful bloodlines that he so successfully developed over the last 40 years.

“We are delighted that Sheikha Hissa will be visiting Europe this autumn and we very much look forward to discussing and developing her vision and plans for the future at that time.”

Also this week Richard Lancaster announced he was stepping down as Shadwell’s stud director, The 69-year-old has worked for Shadwell for 35 years.

A statement issued by Shadwell said: “Richard Lancaster has decided that, following the sad death of Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the time is right for him to step down as stud director of Shadwell Estate Company Limited.

“Richard has been involved with the development of Shadwell from the beginning, starting as assistant to Captain Bobby Dolbey, and has been leading Shadwell as stud director for more than 20 years.

“Shadwell are very grateful to Richard for all his skill and hard work, helping Shadwell become one of the leading owner-breeders in the world. We wish him all the best for the future.”

Lancaster added: “Following the sad death of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum I’ve decided after 35 very happy years that it’s time to move on.

“I’m extremely proud of everything we built up over my time at Shadwell, and I wish everyone at Shadwell the very best for the future. I’m now looking forward to new challenges ahead.”