BGC response to racing fixtures rescheduling

STATEMENT ON RESCHEDULING OF RACING FIXTURES

“We are disappointed that racing has chosen to proceed with its decision to reschedule racing fixtures today. While we understand the concerns within the sport, the decision was taken without consultation with betting operators, who make a significant financial contribution to British racing, and it will ultimately disrupt customers who expected to enjoy fixtures today.

“The Betting and Gaming Council and our members want to work constructively with racing to address the shared challenges we face. Carve-outs for one sport are misguided. Any further tax hikes on the regulated betting and gaming industry would not only hit horse racing, but also other sports that depend on operator funding.

“Racing and betting have a long-standing, symbiotic relationship, one cannot thrive without the other. Further disruption risks frustrating millions of racing fans and undermining the revenues that sustain jobs, communities, and the long-term future of the sport.

“Our members contribute over £350m each year to British racing, alongside £4bn in tax revenues and 109,000 jobs across the country. We remain committed to constructive dialogue and to finding solutions that protect the future of the sport and the enjoyment it brings to millions of fans.”