Overview
- The BHA has called a one-day shutdown on 10 September alongside an ‘Axe the Racing Tax’ event in Westminster to oppose the proposed single remote gambling duty.
- Betting and Gaming Council chief Grainne Hurst says lifting General Betting Duty to the remote gaming rate would be catastrophic for racing finances and drive customers to the black market.
- BHA-commissioned modelling estimates a £66 million annual hit to the sport, with bookmaker funding streams such as media rights, sponsorship and the Levy—cited around £380 million—at risk.
- Racing on the day is set to be cancelled at Carlisle, Kempton Park, Lingfield Park and Uttoxeter, with alternative fixtures offered to those tracks.
- Relations have been strained after bookmakers complained they were not told in advance of the strike plan, drawing public criticism from BGC chair Michael Dugher.