It's been a year of thrills on the track - but the most powerful influence on racing was one pulling dangerous levers from far away

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Nearing the end of another year, it's time for our annual list of the sport's most impactful people. As ever, the aim is not simply to identify those in the positions of greatest power. We've also sought to include those with the highest profiles and those who wield the most influence. Let us know how we did via editor@racingpost.com.

20 Felicity Barnard

Previously with Arsenal and West Ham, Felicity Barnard has been scoring goals for Ascot since 2021 and took over as chief executive in January. There was often good news to report during her first year: attendance increases each day at Royal Ascot, record turnover and rising profits in July. The King George prize-money was increased to £2 million for next year, briefly making it Britain's most valuable race until a similar announcement was made for the Derby. Total prize-money at Ascot will reach a record £19.4 million.

Barnard impressed when speaking at an international racing conference in October and, the following month, her track was overall winner at the RCA's Showcase Awards.