Published on: April 8, 2026, 06:05h.
Updated on: April 8, 2026, 06:05h.
- Over 400 racing leaders urge a halt on proposed betting checks
- Industry leaders caution that affordability measures could jeopardize jobs and funding
- Rising concerns about shifts to black market betting and invasive regulations
A coalition of leaders from British racing has penned an open letter to the UK government, requesting a delay on the implementation of affordability checks for gamblers—a policy they claim will inflict “lasting” harm on horse racing. Signatories encompass racecourse managers, trainers, owners, and notable industry representatives, alongside concerned politicians.
The planned checks are designed to mitigate gambling-related harm by identifying bettors whose spending habits exceed their financial means. This initiative is a part of broader gambling reforms initially introduced by the previous Conservative government, and it is anticipated to be approved by the Gambling Commission next month.
‘Invasive’ Regulations
However, the letter’s authors warn that these “invasive” regulations could drastically reduce betting, a vital funding source for racing, and could inadvertently drive gamblers towards illegal betting options. They assert that it’s not too late for the government to reevaluate this decision.
“In spite of our consistent warnings, the Commission appears determined to implement this contentious policy without regard for its repercussions on Britain’s second most-popular sport,” the letter states, addressed to Lisa Nandy, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport.
This proposal poses a threat of enduring damage to a significant British industry that supports over 85,000 jobs, contributes in excess of £4 billion to the national economy, and stands as a global leader.
A study by the UK Gambling Commission revealed that a majority, two-thirds of respondents, would feel uncomfortable with operators using credit reference information. Additionally, the letter highlights that over 100,000 individuals signed a petition against the checks in 2024, prompting a parliamentary discussion.
Increasing Friction
During that debate, Stuart Andrew, then Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, mentioned that the checks would only be implemented if they were “truly frictionless.” However, insights from the UKGC’s 2024 pilot program indicated otherwise, according to the letter.
“Our government recognized these challenges when the Chancellor allocated £26m to the Gambling Commission to address the escalating illegal betting market. Introducing additional regulations at this time would be a serious error in judgment and could inadvertently support the criminal networks that thrive on illicit betting,” the letter cautions.
“The landscape has evolved since your government assumed office, and it’s vital for us to collaborate on finding a more viable solution. There is still time for you to reassess the unintended consequences of the policies initiated by your predecessor… to safeguard the future of British horseracing.”