Racing New South Wales has frozen the prize money of owner Phoenix Thoroughbreds, reports Just Horse Racing, over allegations the founder Amer Abdulaziz is involved in money laundering.
“Racing NSW has investigated the matter and any allegation made in respect to legal proceedings internationally is denied by Mr. Abdulaziz,” said Racing NSW chairman of stewards Marc Van Gestel. “Pending the outcome of those matters Racing NSW is freezing the prizemoney of horses raced by Phoenix Thoroughbreds.”
Just Horse Racing reports: “In January, Phoenix and Canberra casino owner Tony Fung were the top buyers at the Magic Millions yearlings sale having spent $11.6 million on 19 horses.”
Phoenix also campaigned 2020 Golden Slipper winner Farnan.
Phoenix reportedly is not permitted to race in France, United Arab Emirates or the United Kingdom. No state racing commissions in the United States have taken regulatory action against Phoenix.
Phoenix continues to be active at U.S. bloodstock sales, including the $1.2 million bid by Phoenix agent Gerard Butler to buy out a partner in stakes winner Lady Apple last November at Fasig-Tipton. Shannon Arvin, president and CEO of Keeneland, released the following statement concerning Phoenix being allowed to participate in sales after court documents filed by a federal prosecutor in a money laundering case involving the multi-billion-dollar OneCoin cryptocurrency scam, accused Abdulaziz of being a money launderer for OneCoin.
“Keeneland is aware of the allegations that may involve Phoenix Thoroughbreds and is monitoring the situation,” said Arvin. “However, it is our understanding that Phoenix Thoroughbred has not been indicted by a grand jury, let alone convicted on any allegations. Keeneland will continue to follow any developments in this matter, and certainly will comply with any regulatory or legal action or direction from a governing authority.”
Since the money laundering accusations were made in federal court against Abdulaziz, it is believed that he has not traveled to the United States from Dubai, where he resides.
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