The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) is strongly opposing the government’s proposed increase in remote gambling duty, warning that raising the tax from 15% to at least 21% would severely damage the horse racing industry. A new economic study commissioned by the BHA estimates the tax hike could cost the sector up to £330 million over five years and threaten 3,000 jobs, particularly impacting key racing hubs like Yorkshire and Gloucestershire. The BHA argues that the policy fails to recognize the differences between sports betting and casino gaming and overlooks the complex ecosystem supporting this historic British sport.

In response, the BHA has launched the “#AxeTheRacingTax” campaign, rallying fans and industry stakeholders—including the Jockey Club and Racehorse Owners Association—to pressure the government to reconsider the tax increase before the Autumn Budget. Horse racing, a major UK sport contributing over £4 billion annually to the economy and attracting millions of spectators, faces significant risk if the tax is implemented. The unified racing sector warns that the hike could undermine the sport’s financial stability and cultural heritage, with further actions planned to protect its future.