The most recent rules regard taxation on gambling. In August, Reeves said she would increase the taxation of 15% on horse racing bets to 21% to align with online gambling casinos. The BHA have said this will cost the industry 330 million over five years, and leave 2,752 jobs at threat. This was followed by a day of strike action on the 10th September, in which no races went ahead. Furthermore, a petition to “axe the racing tax” has gained over 12,500 signatures.
The industry pressures expand further than taxation. Animal welfare charities have continually raised concerns surrounding the violent and dangerous nature of horse racing for the horses. These concerns are often centred around animal abuse, the use of the whip, doping, and death. While some practices are illegal in the sport (excessive use of the whip and doping), the punishments on jockeys are lenient, resulting in a standard disqualification from the race.
Even disregarding the illegal activities, animal welfare charities have challenged whether the sport is ethical. Similarly, the Green Party discussed the ethics of horse racing at their 2024 conference. Adrian Ramsay, the then Green Party Co-Leader, spoke at the conference:
“Approximately 200 horses die every year from horse racing. Banning the use of the whip is a basic step for animal welfare. Equally, the horse racing industry needs to answer how it will stop the shocking number of deaths its industry causes that no one wants to see”.
Despite being a significant cultural force in the UK, it appears that horse racing is due to be on the decline. With increasing financial pressures alongside animal welfare concerns, it could be time to reconsider the sport, or whether it can continue in its current form.