Doubts on misappropriation of funds related to pony races were “justified” but no evidence of abuse was found, an inquiry into the operations of the Marsa Racing Club has concluded.

The report stated that the club created an environment where risks of misappropriation of income from pony races were high “although the board of inquiry has no evidence and cannot conclude that any funds were misappropriated”.

It made a set of recommendations to improve operations.

The inquiry was ordered in the wake of a series of allegations by a former photographer at the club, Alex Azzopardi who posted remarks against council members on the social media that were then reported by L-Orizzont newspaper. Much of what he said later proved to be untrue.

His services at the racing track were terminated in February after the club said he was in breach of the agreement. Mr Azzopardi also owed the club about €3,000 in arrears for the concession he was granted.

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