Racing Industry Unites Against 'Catastrophic' Betting Tax Reform

By Mandeep Sanghera
BBC Sport | Published 11 September 2025

Top jockeys including Hollie Doyle, Tom Marquand, and three-time champion Oisin Murphy led an unprecedented demonstration at Westminster on Monday, as British racing launched its first-ever coordinated strike against proposed gambling tax reforms.

Key Developments:

• 4 race meetings canceled (Lingfield Park, Carlisle, Uttoxeter, Kempton Park)
• 2,752 jobs at immediate risk according to BHA economic forecasts
• £330 million annual revenue loss projected if tax hike proceeds
• Historic first: Modern racing voluntarily halts all events nationwide

"This isn't just about bookmakers' profits," said Louise Norman, CEO of the Racehorse Owners Association, in an exclusive BBC interview. "Every 1% tax increase could force 180 small trainers out of business. We're fighting for the survival of rural communities and 85,000 industry-linked jobs."

The Tax Battle Explained:

Protesters unveiled a striking 3-meter steel horse sculpture draped in protest silks while distributing economic impact reports to MPs. The demonstration coincided with:

• Preparations for Doncaster's St Leger Festival (12-15 Sept)
• Parliamentary debate on Gambling Act reforms
• Cross-party meetings with 63 MPs

Labour MP Alex Ballinger countered: "While I sympathize with racing's community role, we must address dangerous online slots causing 73% of gambling harm cases. This tax alignment could fund vital addiction services."

Industry Ultimatum:

• Demand exemption from "remote gambling tax"
• Threaten legal action under 2017 Conservative Manifesto pledges
• Propose alternative 18% compromise rate

Next Steps: BHA executives will meet Chancellor Rachel Reeves on Thursday, while the National Trainers Federation prepares contingency plans for prolonged action.

Watch: BBC Analysis: Why British Racing Chose Nuclear Option | Related: Complete 2025 Racing Calendar Changes