John Gosden calls on sport to lobby MPs over racing tax proposals to avoid ‘devastation’ for the industry

Champion trainer John Gosden is urging the horse racing industry to actively lobby MPs against proposed gambling tax changes. These changes, if implemented, could severely impact the financial stability of the sport.

• John Gosden warns of potential ‘devastation’ from proposed tax hikes.
• The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) estimates losses of £66 million annually for the industry.
• The ‘Axe the Racing Tax’ campaign aims to rally support against the measures.

Gosden’s Call to Action

John Gosden, an iconic figure in British horse racing, has passionately addressed the industry, emphasising the need for swift action. “It is vital that those of us in the racing community act swiftly and stand united in our efforts to lobby our MPs,” Gosden articulated. “This is not just about the survival of racing—it’s a matter of preserving our rich culture and safeguarding livelihoods across the sport.”

The Stakes for the Racing Industry

The proposed tax changes seek to raise the gambling tax on horse race betting from 15% to 21%. This would align the rate with that of online casino games. The BHA warns that this could siphon approximately £66 million annually from the sport, affecting prize money and the viability of breeding operations. The implications are far-reaching, as rural communities depend heavily on the industry for employment and economic activity.

According to industry commentators, the changes could inadvertently push betting into the black market, anyway impairing efforts to curb gambling addiction.

BHA’s ‘Axe the Racing Tax’ Campaign

The BHA has launched the ‘Axe the Racing Tax’ campaign, encouraging all stakeholders to urge their MPs to oppose the tax proposals. The campaign reflects the broader movement among industries to communicate their concerns to lawmakers.

The campaign gains traction amid MPs being under scrutiny for financial dealings, which could affect the reception of lobbying efforts. Nevertheless, the industry is determined to highlight horse racing’s unique cultural and economic contributions.

Time-Sensitive Measures and Future Implications

As the Treasury’s consultation period draws to a close on July 21, action is necessary. Gosden emphasises the time-sensitive nature of the situation, warning that “Failure to do so could lead to irreversible damage to a sport steeped in British history and tradition.” While the Treasury has acknowledged the industry’s concerns, the prospect of a drastic tax change continues to loom large.

With the stakes high, the racing industry must galvanise not just defence but proactive measures to articulate racing’s cultural value to MPs.

For further reading, see the BHA’s urgent call to action on the Axe the Racing Tax.