BHA Launches #AxeTheRacingTax Campaign to Oppose Betting Tax Hike
If the tax change is rolled out could, it could result in an annual £66 million loss and see 2,752 jobs lost in year one alone.
The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has launched its #AxeTheRacingTax campaign, calling on the public to oppose proposed tax changes that could cost the sport £330 million over five years and put thousands of jobs at risk.
Independent research commissioned by the BHA suggests the government’s plan to increase betting tax on horseracing from 15% to 21%—bringing it in line with online casino rates—could result in an annual £66 million loss and see 2,752 jobs lost in year one alone.
BHA Chief Executive Brant Dunshea warned:
“This latest tax bombshell from the Government... poses one of the gravest risks to horseracing the sport has ever seen. We’re talking thousands of jobs at risk, severely impacted communities, and the irreversible decline of the country’s second most popular sport.”
The industry has been raising the alarm, with bookmakers, trainers, and stable staff all voicing serious concerns.
David Lovell, Co-founder of Welsh bookmaker DragonBet, said the implications could be far-reaching:
“Horseracing sits at the very roots of the DragonBet brand. We owe our existence to the sport and we see the passion, tradition and economic impact it generates every day. This tax proposal risks weakening a sector that brings not only joy to millions but real business to Britain, from hospitality and tourism to rural employment. Racing deserves to be protected and championed, not quietly undermined.”
Racehorse trainer David Menuisier added:
“This move would put thousands of trainers, owners, jockeys and stable staff at risk. Racing is more than just a sport – it’s a major local employer, especially here in West Sussex.”
Sarah Guest, yard manager at John O’Shea Racing, said:
“If the industry starts shrinking, it will be stable staff like me who will feel it first. A betting tax rise will only stifle the sport.”
The BHA is urging fans and the wider public to show support by signing its petition and helping stop a policy it says could permanently damage one of Britain’s most historic and economically vital sports.
