BHA calls on MPs to ‘Axe the Racing Tax’

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has launched an urgent industry-wide campaign urging the Government to abandon proposed tax changes that could deal a severe financial blow to the sport.

Unveiled this week, the “Axe the Racing Tax” campaign mobilises the racing community to oppose Treasury plans to align the tax rate on horserace betting with that of online games of chance. The proposals, currently under consultation until 21 July, were first floated in April, when the Treasury launched a review of harmonising remote gambling and betting duties.

Under the current regime, horserace betting is taxed at 15%, compared to 21% for online casino-style games. The BHA argues that bringing the horseracing rate up to match online gaming would amount to a “racing tax” that threatens the very viability of Britain’s second most-popular sport.

Economic analysis commissioned by the BHA estimates an immediate loss of £66m million to the sport—spanning Levy income, media rights, and sponsorship—should the 21% rate be adopted. Higher rates would inflict even greater damage: a £97m loss at 25%, £126m at 30%, and £160m at 40%.

Brant Dunshea, Acting Chief Executive of the BHA, did not mince words: “The Government’s consultation on harmonising online betting duties, if followed through, poses one of the gravest risks to racing the sport has ever seen.

“This will punch a huge hole in racing’s finances, risk thousands of jobs across Britain and threaten the future of the country’s second most-popular sport and a cherished national institution.”

The campaign launches as the BHA steps up pressure on the Government to also commit to a full review of affordability checks, which are currently being piloted on UK gambling accounts by the Gambling Commission. The checks, which assess whether punters can afford their bets, have become a lightning rod for criticism among racing stakeholders, who argue they are driving customers away from regulated channels and damaging engagement with the sport.

Together, the proposed tax harmonisation, affordability checks, and lack of a long-term funding framework form what the BHA describes as a “triple threat” to the sport’s future.

Dunshea claims: “From now until the Budget we will be hammering home a very simple message to MPs, Peers and the Government on behalf of millions of racing fans.

It’s time for the Government to back British racing and axe the racing tax.”

The campaign has already drawn political backing. This week, the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Racing and Bloodstock published a report urging urgent government action to preserve a sector that supports tens of thousands of jobs, particularly in rural and semi-rural communities.

Meanwhile, Treasury Minister James Murray MP has acknowledged industry concerns and pledged to work with the racing sector to avoid “unintended consequences” and explore mitigation options should changes proceed.

The BHA stands by its message to Westminster to “back British racing—axe the racing tax and rethink affordability.”