Overview

• The Treasury closed its consultation on July 21 on a proposal to align the 15 percent horse-racing betting duty with the 21 percent online gaming rate and is now reviewing submissions ahead of the autumn budget.
• The British Horseracing Authority’s campaign has mobilised thousands through the #AxeTheRacingTax petition to demonstrate widespread opposition and protect bookmaker-funded prize money.
• Independent modelling commissioned by the BHA predicts the duty rise could drain £330 million from the sport over five years and imperil more than 2,750 jobs in the first year.
• Reform UK leader Nigel Farage condemned the planned tax increase at Goodwood, arguing that horse racing bets involve individual choice and established safeguards unlike casino gaming.
• Industry strategists advocate a three-tier lobbying plan that highlights racing’s fragile finances, clarifies its dependence on bookmakers, and rebuts misconceptions about problem gambling.