British Horseracing Authority Urges Treasury to ‘Axe the Tax’ to Protect Industry’s Future

The BHA argues that British horseracing deserves special treatment, separate from other forms of gambling, and has formally lodged its opposition to the potential changes currently under consultation as part of the upcoming Autumn Budget.

The BHA’s submission to the Treasury consultation has been backed by a powerful coalition of industry stakeholders, including The Jockey Club, Arena Racing Company, the Racecourse Association, the Racehorse Owners Association, and the National Trainers Federation. Together, these bodies have presented a united front in urging the Government to reconsider the proposed tax increases and to recognise horseracing’s unique relationship with betting.

According to sector analysis cited by the BHA, the potential financial fallout from these changes could cost British racing anywhere between £66 million ($89 million) and £160 million ($215 million) per year in lost revenue. The governing body has stressed that this would threaten thousands of jobs, particularly in rural areas and racing towns, where the industry plays a vital economic and cultural role. In addition, it warned of further damage to British racing’s efforts in maintaining high standards of equine welfare.

BHA Acting Chief Executive Brant Dunshea emphasised the need for the Government to acknowledge the distinctive nature of betting on racing. “Horseracing has a uniquely symbiotic relationship with betting, and the Government must recognise this,” he stated. “It is why we are calling for betting on racing to be taxed at a different and lower rate than all other forms of betting.”

The BHA also pointed to historical precedents where horseracing betting has received differentiated treatment in terms of taxation. This reflects the fact that betting on racing is fundamentally different from the fast-paced, high-stakes gambling activities that typically dominate the broader market. Racing, the BHA argues, is a skill-based pursuit with a dedicated and knowledgeable customer base, which should not be lumped into the same regulatory bracket as other forms of gambling.

Adding to the urgency of its campaign, the BHA referenced data from the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities which revealed a concerning rise in visits to illegal betting sites between 2021 and 2024. Visits to such sites offering horseracing wagers increased by 131% over the period, while legal markets grew by just 25%. The BHA warns that increasing taxes will likely drive bettors further towards unregulated markets, heightening risks around problem gambling and reducing consumer protection.

With the Treasury consultation set to close on 21 July, the BHA has encouraged supporters to lobby their local MPs by using a letter template it has provided. The campaign argues that this tax would not only damage a historic British sport but would also have the unintended consequence of pushing more consumers towards unsafe betting environments. The BHA maintains that the policy fails to understand the fundamental differences between racing and other forms of gambling, and has vowed to continue its fight to protect the future of British horseracing.