Few names are as deeply intertwined with horse racing as JP McManus. A legendary figure in the sport, McManus has made his mark as one of the most successful and influential racehorse owners in history. With 78 Cheltenham Festival winners to his name and over 60 entries in the 2025 Festival alone, the Irish billionaire remains a dominant force in National Hunt racing.
At 74 years old in 2025, McManus isn’t just a racehorse owner—he’s a business mogul, former Manchester United shareholder, philanthropist, and golf enthusiast. With an estimated net worth of over €2 billion, his financial empire spans foreign exchange trading, hospitality, sports, and real estate.
So, how did a former bookmaker rise to such incredible heights? Let’s take a closer look at McManus’ remarkable journey, his fallout with Sir Alex Ferguson, and his deep-rooted passion for sports.
From Bookmaker to Billionaire: JP McManus’ Rise to Success
Born in Limerick, Ireland, in 1951, JP McManus grew up in a world where horse racing and gambling were part of everyday life. He started his career as a bookmaker in greyhound racing, a role that gave him an in-depth understanding of betting markets and risk management.
His sharp instincts and knack for high-stakes gambling soon led him into the world of private foreign exchange trading, where he made his fortune. Over the years, McManus has invested in multiple industries, including:
- Horse racing – Owning hundreds of racehorses, many of them festival winners.
- Finance – Becoming a key player in private trading.
- Hospitality and Real Estate – Investing in hotels, including the world-famous Adare Manor.
- Sports betting and bookmakers – Holding stakes in Ladbrokes and other betting ventures.
JP McManus at Cheltenham: A Racing Powerhouse
Horse racing is where McManus truly made his name. Since entering the sport in the 1970s, he has built a stable of elite racehorses and has won countless major titles.
With 78 Cheltenham Festival winners already under his belt, McManus looks set to add more silverware in 2025. This year, his top entries include Majborough in the Arkle Novices’ Chase and Jonbon, a major contender in the Queen Mother Champion Chase.
McManus is known for his shrewd investments in racehorses, with Jonbon being a prime example. He paid £570,000 for the horse in 2020, a decision that is now proving highly profitable as Jonbon continues to dominate the circuit.
McManus’ Net Worth: How He Became a Billionaire
As of 2025, JP McManus’ estimated net worth exceeds €2 billion, making him one of Ireland’s richest individuals.
While much of his fortune comes from foreign exchange trading, McManus has diversified his wealth across multiple sectors. His portfolio includes:
- Shares in financial institutions and sports betting companies
- High-end real estate investments
- Horse racing and breeding operations
- Golf resorts, including the prestigious Adare Manor
The Fallout with Sir Alex Ferguson: A Feud Over a Racehorse
One of the most fascinating chapters in McManus’ life is his infamous dispute with Sir Alex Ferguson.
At one point, McManus and his business partner, John Magnier, were among the largest shareholders in Manchester United, controlling 29% of the club. Their involvement came at a time when United was the dominant force in English football.
However, their relationship with United manager Sir Alex Ferguson soured over a racehorse named Rock of Gibraltar.
Ferguson, who co-owned the champion thoroughbred, believed he was entitled to a share of the horse’s stud fees. McManus and Magnier disagreed, leading to a legal battle that created deep divisions. The dispute became so intense that it threatened Ferguson’s future at the club.
Selling Manchester United to the Glazers
Instead of fighting for control, McManus and Magnier sold their shares to Malcolm Glazer in 2005. This decision paved the way for the Glazer family’s controversial ownership of Manchester United.
The Glazers’ takeover burdened the club with massive debt, sparking fan protests and even the formation of FC United of Manchester, a breakaway club.
Over the years, the relationship between McManus and Ferguson has thawed. Reflecting on the feud in 2022, McManus stated:
“If I meet him at the races, we’d say hello. Life’s too short.”
JP McManus and Golf: The Man Behind the 2027 Ryder Cup
While racing may be his first love, McManus is deeply involved in golf. He owns Adare Manor, one of the most luxurious golf resorts in the world, which is set to host the 2027 Ryder Cup.
McManus is also the organizer of the JP McManus Pro-Am, a prestigious golf tournament that has attracted legends like Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, and Phil Mickelson. His commitment to golf has elevated Ireland’s reputation as a golfing destination, making Adare Manor a must-visit course for elite players.
Philanthropy: A Generous Patron of Irish Sport
Despite his immense wealth, McManus remains a deeply private and philanthropic figure. His contributions to Irish sports, particularly the GAA, have been extraordinary.
In 2023, he made headlines for donating €1 million to each GAA county board in Ireland, an unprecedented act of generosity. This funding has helped develop grassroots sports facilities, coaching programs, and player development initiatives.
Overcoming a Health Scare
In the late 2000s, McManus faced one of his biggest battles—prostate cancer. Fortunately, he made a full recovery, and in 2014, he reflected on the experience:
“A lot of good came out of the cancer. You see things in a different light. I got more out of it than I lost and there was never a day I thought I wouldn’t make it.”
His ability to remain optimistic and forward-thinking through adversity is a testament to his character.
The Legacy of JP McManus
JP McManus is far more than just a racehorse owner. He is a self-made billionaire, a sharp investor, and a passionate supporter of Irish sports. Whether it’s Cheltenham, golf, or even football, his influence can be felt across multiple disciplines.
With over €2 billion to his name, McManus remains one of the most successful figures in the world of sports and finance. His sharp business mind, strategic investments, and unwavering commitment to racing ensure that he will continue to dominate the industry for years to come.
As he looks to add more Cheltenham victories to his resume in 2025, one thing is certain—JP McManus isn’t done yet.
