#axetheracingtax

In a historic and unprecedented move, British horse racing industries—including jockeys, trainers, and racecourses—are staging a one-day strike today, canceling all events at key tracks like Lingfield, Carlisle, Uttoxeter, and Kempton. This action, rallying behind the “Axe the Racing Tax” campaign, is aimed at opposing the government's proposed overhaul of online gambling taxes, which threatens the financial foundation of the sport.

Strike Born from Fear of Financial Harm

The Treasury is considering consolidating multiple gambling duties into one universal rate under the Remote Betting & Gaming Duty (RBGD), potentially raising the tax on horse racing bets from 15% to 21%, aligning it with online casino betting. The British Horseracing Authority warns such a hike could endanger £66 million in annual revenue and jeopardize around 2,752 jobs, striking at the sport's economic lifeblood and legacy.

A United Front Before Parliament

Racing leaders, owners, trainers, and jockeys are gathering in Westminster to make their voices heard in hopes of convincing policymakers of horse racing’s cultural, economic, and social importance. BHA chair Lord Charles Allen called upon the industry to “stand together” and clarify that this campaign is about more than sports—it’s about protecting British heritage and livelihoods.

Threat to Britain’s Racing Ecosystem

The sport isn’t just entertainment—it’s part of Britain's economic puzzle, supporting numerous rural communities and festivals, and generating billions each year. Stakeholders warn that raising the betting duty could drive bookmakers away and undermine essential support systems. Without the backing of betting contributions—historically over £350 million annually—prize money, media support, and even veterinary care could suffer.

A Strike Without Precedent

This is the first time that British horse racing voluntarily suspended its activities in protest. Meetings affected by the strike have been rescheduled to alternate dates, ensuring that the intended lobbying at Westminster has maximum visibility and impact.

Voices from the Fray

Paul Johnson, Chief Executive of the National Trainers Federation, described the strike as a potential “defining moment” that could reshape the viability of British racing. Jim Mullen from the Jockey Club emphasized the need for reflection on the economic and community consequences of the tax proposal. Arena Racing Company echoed that tax harmonization could strip the sport of its global status.

Government Responds with Calm

While horse racing draws battle lines, the government maintains the tax reform's aim is not to raise rates but to simplify the system. Government representatives affirm that racecourse bets remain untouched for now and stress that the consultation process is open to input from all sectors—including racing.

At a Crossroads of Culture and Commerce

Today’s strike is more than a protest—it’s a plea to recognize an irreplaceable part of British identity. With the sport contributing £4 billion annually and supporting 85,000 jobs, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Racing advocates argue that a one-size-fits-all tax regime could destabilize not just horse racing, but broader cultural and economic ecosystems in the UK.