Racing faces a need for Lord Allen's assistance, yet concurrently requires self-help – and aligning with anti-gambling advocates remains confounding.
In the world of British horseracing, a significant challenge looms on the horizon. The proposed increase in the online betting tax, set to rise from 15% to 21%, has sparked intense opposition from the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and the racing industry. This move, aligning horserace betting taxes with those of casinos and games of chance, is seen as a grave financial and existential threat, potentially causing widespread job losses across racing communities.
The BHA's acting Chief Executive, Brant Dunshea, has emphasised the sport's precarious financial position and the critical need for racing to maintain independence in lobbying efforts. In a historic move, the BHA has organised a strike, cancelling all races scheduled for September 10, 2025, at major racecourses such as Lingfield, Carlisle, Uttoxeter, and Kempton. This marks the first voluntary cancellation of racing fixtures in modern British horseracing history.
The strike aims to highlight the severe consequences of the tax proposal and lobby the Government to reconsider before the autumn Budget. The protest also includes a major industry gathering in Westminster to amplify opposition to the tax hike.
The BHA's internal dynamics have not gone unnoticed. Negotiations with the BHA have highlighted divisions and dysfunction among some of its member organisations. Despite these challenges, the BHA boasts a dedicated team of individuals committed to the sport's future.
Racing, while being the second-biggest spectator sport in the UK, is also a declining one. The average attendance at racecourses in 2020 was 3,404, a 14% decline since 2019. This decline, coupled with the proposed betting tax increase, paints a concerning picture for the sport's future.
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As the BHA grapples with these challenges, the appointment of Charles Allen as its chair, effective next month, offers a glimmer of hope. However, doubts about taking on the role were expressed during a private meeting, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.
English football's fourth tier, with average attendances of over 6,200, outstrips the average attendance at racecourses. As the BHA navigates these challenges, it remains to be seen whether racing can maintain its position as a major player in the UK's sports landscape.
