The British horse racing industry is set to make history with a one-day strike on 10 September 2025, as it takes a stand against the government's proposed tax increase on betting. This unprecedented action, part of the Axe The Racing Tax campaign, will see four major fixtures at Lingfield Park, Carlisle, Uttoxeter, and Kempton Park rescheduled.

Economic Impact of the Proposed Tax

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has warned that the proposed tax could have a "destructive impact" on the industry. Economic analysis predicts a potential loss of £330 million in revenue and the risk of 2,752 jobs in the first year alone. The Treasury's proposal aims to align the tax rate on remote gambling with that of online gaming, increasing it from 15% to 21%.

Industry Leaders Speak Out

Brant Dunshea, CEO of the BHA, emphasized the precarious financial position of British racing. "This tax rise could be catastrophic for the sport and the thousands of jobs that rely on it," he said. Jim Mullen, CEO of The Jockey Club, added, "We hope the government will reflect on the economic and cultural significance of horse racing in the UK."

Rescheduled Fixtures

The cancelled fixtures have been rescheduled as follows:

• Lingfield Park (afternoon): 8 September (afternoon)
• Carlisle (afternoon): 9 September (evening)
• Uttoxeter (afternoon): 11 September (evening)
• Kempton Park (evening): 15 September (evening)

Additionally, the evening fixture at Kempton Park on 15 September has been moved to the evening of 18 September.

Cultural and Economic Significance

The horse racing industry contributes £4.1 billion to the UK economy and supports 85,000 jobs. The strike is a call to action to protect a sport that is deeply ingrained in British heritage and culture. As the industry pauses for reflection, it hopes the government will reconsider the proposed tax to prevent irreparable damage to a sport the nation is proud of.