Last Monday, Italy’s Ministry of Agriculture hosted a key meeting where MASAF Undersecretary Senator Patrizio La Pietra reviewed recent progress and outlined strategic plans for revitalizing the equestrian sector in 2026. Since the establishment of the Horse Racing Directorate in 2023, the sector has reversed its decline with improved payment regularity, confirmed prize funding, and increased investments. For 2026, no funding cuts are planned; instead, racetracks will see a €1.5 million increase plus additional allocations for Capannelle and capital expenditure recovery. Key initiatives include an imminent betting reform, a comprehensive overhaul of trot and gallop regulations, renewal of the consultative Consulta body, and enhanced international promotion efforts, highlighted by events in Verona and Paris.
Director Remo Chiodi emphasized that the agenda centers on betting reform, infrastructure upgrades, and maintaining high standards in animal welfare, anti-doping, and digitalization. The sector aims to sustain timely payments and improve communication, with notable growth in digital engagement and renewed editorial efforts for EQU TV. Italy’s rising international stature is underscored by hosting the European Pattern Committee meeting for the first time since 2005. The overarching goal for 2026 is to foster unity and synergy within the industry to build on recent successes and drive further progress.
