Ben Maher settles legal dispute with former backers
Ben Maher has resolved a long-term legal dispute with his former backers Michael and Emma Phillips of Quainton Stud LLP.
H&H broke the news in December that he was being sued for around £700,000 over claims he made “secret profits” from horse deals.
When the case was made public Ben hit back alleging that the Phillipses owed him for extensive services he provided during their association, which began in 2005.
In April the sale of Ben’s Olympic ride Tripple X to Eric Lamaze’s company Torrey Pines was agreed in court.
The dispute has now been settled out of court and the following jointly agreed statement has been released by Quainton Stud LLP
“Michael and Emma Phillips are satisfied that the financial settlement made to them is an acceptable amount that takes into account all the remaining areas of dispute and their legal expenses.
“The terms of the settlement are confidential but Ben Maher recognises that Michael and Emma Phillips together with Quainton Stud LLP (of whom they are the sole members) were loyal owners who were instrumental in helping to advance his career to the highest levels in show jumping and for that he will always be grateful.
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“With the benefit of hindsight, he accepts that there were aspects of his working relationship with them that should have been dealt with in a different manner.
“Ben Maher wishes to apologise sincerely for any inconvenience, distress or embarrassment that may have been caused to Michael and Emma Phillips and is grateful to them for their willingness to allow the matter to be resolved.
“Ben Maher wishes Michael and Emma Phillips continued success in their show jumping breeding programme and their high level of involvement in showjumping as top owners and breeders.
“There will be no further comment on this matter.”
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Sophia Heath joined Horse & Hound in July 2013 having previously worked for the Daily Telegraph's Olympics website, CNN International and Omnisport. A Durham graduate with a Masters in journalism from City University, Sophia has evented, showjumped and hunted. Sophia left Horse & Hound in early 2015 to join an international boating website.