BGC members to donate Britannia Stakes profits to Royal Charities

In honour of King Charles’ coronation, industry trade body Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has announced that its biggest members will donate all profits from Royal Ascot’s Britannia Stakes race to UK charities. 

Winnings from Thursday’s handicap race will be distributed to SportsAid – whose Patron is Her Royal Highness the Princess of Wales – the Holocaust Educational Trust, Cystic Fibrosis Trust, SAS Regimental Association (SASRA), Ascot Racecourse Supports, and Together for Looked After Children. 

BGC members continue the tradition of donating winnings from Royal Ascot to charities, which raised £1.2m last year for a host of good causes. Should bookmakers fail to make a profit on the race, they have agreed to make a combined donation of £250,000 to be split among the nominated charities.

Michael Dugher, Chief Executive of the BGC, acknowledged the race’s significance: “Royal Ascot remains one of Britain’s most historic and world-renowned sporting spectacles. 

“The BGC’s largest members are proud to honour the King’s Coronation by once again donating all profits from the Britannia Stakes to worthy causes.” 

The initiative is also seen as a tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II, well-known for her passion for horse racing. Beneficiary charities have given their gratitude and excitement of the announcement, all expressing their thanks to the BGC and anticipation for the impact the funds will have on their respective causes. 

This year’s event marks the fourth consecutive year that BGC members have converted profits from the Britannia Stakes into charitable donations, with more than £5.5m raised for an array of good causes since the initiative began in 2019. The tradition now ensures that no matter the outcome of the race, several UK charities are guaranteed to be the real winner