British Racing Takes an Official Stand Against Tax Changes

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has pushed back against the Treasury’s plans to charge a higher remote gambling duty on betting activity, saying the step could deliver a damaging financial blow to one of the nation’s oldest and most beloved sports. The organization submitted a formal response on its website, calling for fans and stakeholders to join its efforts.

Horse Racing Has Fostered a Sprawling Ecosystem

According to the BHA, betting on horse racing must remain under a separate, lower tax rate, differentiating it from other types of online gambling. The governing body believes that including racing alongside online slots and casino games in a higher tax bracket could undermine a crucial source of funding and jeopardize the livelihoods of thousands.

The BHA’s report cites economic projections that predict racing stands to lose a minimum of GBP 66 million ($89 million) a year under the new regime. In the worst-case scenario, losses would balloon to GBP 160 million ($215 million). Such a drastic change would cause a shockwave among racecourses, training yards, stables, and rural communities that rely on the sport.

If the Chancellor delivers this tax bombshell at the Autumn Budget, not only will jobs be lost but the future of Britain’s second-largest spectator sport will be in jeopardy.

Brant Dunshea, BHA acting CEO

The suggested changes would represent the third significant setback to the sector in recent years, following stricter affordability checks on gamblers and the continued absence of long-promised reforms to the Horse Race Betting Levy. While most such measures aim to protect consumers from gambling harm and ensure regulations remain up-to-date with industry developments, the BHA argues that racing deserves special treatment.

A New Campaign Urges Fans to Step Up

The BHA’s argument revolves around the historic partnership between racing and betting. Bookmakers already contribute to the sport through the Levy, a statutory charge that supports everything from prize money to integrity and equine welfare. According to the BHA, Racing’s special status is already reflected in the tax system, with betting on the sport facing different taxes than high-risk online games.

High-profile racing organisations, including the Jockey Club, Arena Racing Company, and the Racehorse Owners Association, have joined the BHA’s calls to protect British racing. Together, they are preparing to launch a national campaign called “Axe The Racing Tax,” hoping to garner public support and pressure lawmakers ahead of the Autumn Budget.

We are urging fans of the sport to write to their MP to ask them to put pressure on the Chancellor to Axe The Racing Tax.

Brant Dunshea, BHA acting CEO

The Treasury consultation regarding the new tax measures closes on 21 July. A final decision is expected to be announced later this year, with final tax proposals likely going public in the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement. In the meantime, the BHA and its supporters say they’ll keep fighting to safeguard one of British racing’s final lifelines.