Standing Together to Axe The Racing Tax
On Wednesday 10 September, for the first time in modern times, our sport refused to race in protest at the Government’s proposed betting tax rise. It was an unprecedented but necessary step to protect the future of racing.
That same day, owners, trainers, jockeys, breeders and racing staff gathered in Westminster to call on the Government to #AxeTheRacingTax. The turnout from MPs may have been light, but the media impact was huge - front pages, TV news, print and online. Racing’s message could not be clearer: we are a national sport enjoyed by millions, and we deserve support, not more tax.
Speeches from leaders across the sport, including Brant Dunshea (BHA), Martin Cruddace (ARC), Jim Mullen (The Jockey Club), trainer John Gosden and former Employee of the Year of the Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards, Sarah Guest, highlighted the human impact of this proposed tax: people’s jobs, livelihoods and communities are at stake.
For owners, the threat is stark. ROA research shows only 6% of owners plan to increase their involvement over the next five years, while nearly half expect to reduce it. Another financial blow, on top of already tight ownership economics, could be devastating.
The BHA has set out the consequences if betting tax is raised to 21% in the Autumn Budget:
- 5 million racing fans a year at risk
- 85,000 jobs under threat
- £4.1 billion annual contribution to the UK economy in jeopardy
- £330 million lost in just five years
But, this is about more than numbers. It’s about protecting a sport embedded in Britain’s history, culture and economy. That’s why the ROA stood alongside the industry in Westminster, but we need everyone’s, including owner’s, voice. Please show your support by writing to your MP, information on the Axe The Racing Tax and MPs can be found at www.axetheracingtax.com.
Together, we can make the difference.
