BBC presenter and sports broadcaster Clare Balding has shared the heartbreaking news of her father's death. Ian Balding, a revered figure in the horse racing world, passed away at the age of 87 on Friday, 2 January 2026.
A "One of a Kind" Father and Sportsman
Clare Balding announced the sad news on her social media channels, posting a series of photographs alongside an emotional tribute. She described her father as "one of a kind", highlighting his fearless, funny, and charming nature.
"He was an all round sportsman, a great trainer and a beautiful horseman," she wrote. The broadcaster credited her dad with sharing his passion for sport and teaching her to "be brave enough to chase a dream, even if it seemed impossible." She concluded her message by stating the family would miss him profoundly.
A Legendary Racing Career
Ian Balding's career in horse racing was distinguished and highly successful. He was best known as the trainer of the legendary Derby winner Mill Reef. His Kingsclere yard was also home to many other top-class performers including Glint Of Gold, Selkirk, and the hugely popular sprinter Lochsong.
An accomplished amateur rider in his youth, Balding was a Cheltenham Festival-winning rider before turning his focus to training. He retired from training in 2002, handing over his licence to his son, Andrew. Clare Balding herself was a keen rider before her broadcasting career took precedence.
In recognition of his services to racing, he was appointed a Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order (LVO). A statement from the family's Park House yard confirmed his passing, describing him as "a wonderful family man, a hugely successful racehorse trainer and a brilliant sportsman."
An Outpouring of Love and Condolences
The news prompted an immediate wave of sympathy from friends, colleagues, and fans across the media and sporting worlds. Fellow BBC presenter and The Traitors host Claudia Winkleman sent her love, writing: "Sending you all love xxx."
Recent Celebrity Traitors winner Alan Carr added: "Sending you so much love." Tributes also came from other well-known broadcasters including Gabby Logan and Zoe Ball, who said: "So much love and strength sent your way Clare. may your Dads star shine brightest for you."
Reverend Kate Bottley, a journalist on BBC Radio 2, offered words of comfort: "May the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace and rise in glory. I'm so sorry for your loss xx."
Ian Balding, born on 7 November 1938, is survived by his wife, children Clare and Andrew, and his grandchildren. The racing world has lost one of its most respected and charismatic figures.
