Brant Dunshey, the acting chief executive of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), expressed approval of the government’s decision to maintain the current 15% tax rate on horse racing betting. The BHA-led campaign, ‘Abolish Horse Racing Tax,’ which garnered broad support across the industry and even led to the cancellation of four race meetings on September 10 as a form of strike action, was aimed at preventing a proposed tax hike feared to be introduced by Finance Minister Rachel Reeves in the upcoming Budget.
A study commissioned by the BHA estimated that increasing the tax would cost the sport £66 million in its first year and threaten 2,752 jobs. Mr. Dunshey praised the government’s recognition that horse racing holds a unique cultural, social, and economic importance, stating that the Prime Minister’s decision shows an understanding of the sport’s value. He emphasized that horse racing betting is integral to the enjoyment of the sport and maintaining the tax rate helps preserve both revenue and the 85,000 jobs linked to the industry across the UK.
While taxes on horse racing remain unchanged, the government plans to keep the 15% betting tax on other sports betting in shops but raise it to 25% for online betting, along with an increase in remote gaming tax on online casino betting from 21% to 40%. Dunshey acknowledged that these broader tax increases could indirectly affect horse racing and signaled a commitment to collaborating with betting industry partners to address any challenges.
BHA Chairman Sir Charles Allen expressed gratitude to the entire industry for their united stance and highlighted the government’s acknowledgment of horse racing as a significant part of British culture and a global soft power asset. He looks forward to efforts aimed at expanding the sport’s reach and prominence. Similarly, David Armstrong, CEO of the Racecourse Association, welcomed the exemption but noted ongoing challenges for racecourses and the wider sport as a result of other budget measures. Paul Johnson, CEO of the National Federation of Trainers, called the decision a “substantial relief,” while urging continued efforts to bolster the sport’s financial health amid ongoing competitive pressures.
Fan Take:
This decision to keep the horse racing betting tax steady is a huge win for fans, preserving the sport’s heritage and economic stability. It signals hope for a stronger future where racing continues to thrive, supporting jobs and bringing communities together across the UK.
