Chicago, IL — Robert Muriel, a member of the Illinois Racing Board since 2015, has resigned and has accepted an appointment by Governor Pritzker to be the Director of the Illinois Department of Insurance.

“Our loss is the Department of Insurance’s gain. I was much better for being around him,” said Chairman Jeff Brincat.

Michael Belmonte has been appointed to serve as Director of Mutuels including Intertrack and Simulcast Wagering for the Illinois Racing Board. Michael is no stranger to horse racing. He served as Balmoral Park’s Controller/General Manager from 1999 to 2016.

“His extensive institutional knowledge will be invaluable to the Racing Board,” said Executive Director Domenic DiCera.