Fundi Sithebe: Leading the Charge for Diversity in Horse Racing
In an industry long dominated by white males, pioneer Fundi Sithebe is rewriting the script. As the CEO of 4Racing, South Africa’s largest racing operator, she has spent nearly four years at the helm of a sport steeped in history and tradition—yet ripe for transformation.
But for Sithebe, leadership is about more than managing horse racing; it’s about modernising operations, driving strategic growth, and championing inclusivity to secure the sport’s future.
On June 1st, 2021, the world of horse racing shifted as Fundi Sithebe stepped into one of the most influential roles in the industry. For her, it wasn’t just about taking on an executive position—it was about rebuilding an industry in need of renewal.
Her leadership extends far beyond the racecourse. She and her team oversee high-stakes racing events, manage betting revenue, and pioneer new revenue streams, all with a vision to invigorate and modernise horse racing.
Now, as she nears her fourth year as CEO, Sithebe reflects on the journey so far: “I saw a chance to reform operations, drive strategic growth, and champion a more inclusive future for horse racing. The road has been both challenging and deeply rewarding.”
Sithebe’s career is a masterclass in resilience and strategic leadership. From her roles at FirstRand/FNB, ACSA, and Deloitte to her position as a non-executive director at South African Airways, she has consistently navigated industries where black female representation remains rare.
It important to note that her rise to the top has not been without resistance. Being a black woman in a historically exclusive industry means facing skepticism—sometimes in the form of dismissive labels like “token hire.” But she remains focused:
“I am aware of narratives like being labeled a token black woman in a predominantly white male industry. However, I choose to focus on my work and the results I deliver. My aim is to challenge these stereotypes by consistently demonstrating excellence and leadership. My accomplishments speak for themselves, and I am proud to be paving the way for greater diversity.”
4Racing CEO Fundi Sithebe
Her ability to tune out the noise and focus on impact is a skill she has honed over the years. From leading operational strategies at Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) to playing a critical role in the 2010 FIFA World Cup preparations, she has consistently proved that excellence is the best response to doubt.
At just 24 years old, she earned her private pilot’s license—a milestone that, for her, was about more than just flying: “It wasn’t just about flying—it was a declaration that no challenge is too great when you have the determination to break boundaries.”
That mindset has fuelled her throughout her career, helping her navigate complex leadership roles with confidence and vision.
One of Sithebe’s key priorities at 4Racing is opening doors for a more diverse pool of talent.
“The horse racing scene for women in South Africa is evolving. While we’ve seen more talented women making strides both on and off the track, there is still significant room for growth.”
Historically, horse racing in South Africa has been a sport and hobby for the wealthy elite, largely excluding the majority of South Africans—especially women. But Sithebe believes change is happening.
She emphasises that transformation won’t happen by chance—it requires deliberate action:
“Although the pace may be gradual, I am confident that with deliberate efforts to remove barriers and promote mentorship, we will continue to see a richer diversity of voices and talents in the sport.”
Rebuilding South Africa’s horse racing industry was never going to be easy. Sithebe acknowledges that the road to transformation comes with its challenges: “Legacy operational models, ingrained practices, and managing diverse stakeholder expectations have all added complexity. However, these hurdles have also been a catalyst for innovation, pushing us to rethink processes and set higher benchmarks for quality and efficiency.”
For Sithebe, leadership is not just about meeting targets—it’s about reimagining an entire industry.
Despite her long list of achievements, Sithebe is far from done. “There’s always room to evolve. My ongoing goals include further transforming the horse racing landscape, driving diversity and inclusion, and exploring new opportunities that have a lasting impact on the industry.”
She envisions a future where inclusivity, innovation, and sustainable growth are at the core of South African horse racing.
“I want to see an industry where every talent, regardless of gender or background, is celebrated and has the opportunity to flourish.”
For South African women in leadership, her wish is simple yet powerful: “I hope to see a future where their contributions are not only recognised but also fundamentally shape the sport’s evolution.”
With Fundi Sithebe at the helm, that future is more within reach than ever before. Sithebe isn’t just leading South African horse racing—she’s redefining what leadership looks like in the industry.
Main Photo Caption: Breaking barriers and redefining leadership – 4Racing CEO Fundi Sithebe is leading the charge for diversity, innovation, and transformation in the SA horse racing scene, and she is proving that excellence is the best response to doubt. Photo: Supplied
Photo 2 Caption: “My goals include further transforming the horse racing landscape, driving diversity and inclusion, and exploring new opportunities.” Photo: Lerato Mbele on X
Photo 4 Caption: Sithebe and her team oversee high-stakes racing events, manage betting revenue, and pioneer new revenue streams, to invigorate and modernise racing.
Photo 4 Caption: Sithebe says: “I want to see an industry where every talent, regardless of gender or background, is celebrated.” Photo: Lerato Mbele on X
Crédito: Link de origem