The Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association (TBA) has projected a significant decline in Britain’s breeding and racing industry, forecasting a potential 25% drop in foal crops from 2022 to 2026. This alarming trend has raised concerns among breeders, with Colin Bryce from Laundry Cottage Stud highlighting that many small and medium-sized breeders are precariously close to financial ruin, relying heavily on successful sales to stay afloat.

Ed Player of Whatton Manor Stud echoed these sentiments, noting that even affluent individuals in the industry are feeling the strain due to the challenging economic landscape of British racing. The TBA’s chair, Philip Newton, emphasized that this decline in foal numbers could severely impact the racing program and the sustainability of racecourses across the country.

Overall, the projections signal a troubling future for the British breeding and racing sector, with potential repercussions that could affect not only breeders but also the broader racing community, including racecourses and associated businesses.