Over 400 leading figures in British horseracing have written an open letter to Lisa Nandy MP, calling for a halt to the introduction of affordability checks for betting. The letter, published on 7 April, includes signatories from across the sport. These include racecourse executives, trainers, owners, breeders, and politicians.
The appeal urges the government to intervene before the Gambling Commission formally approves the checks, which are reportedly scheduled for next month. Racing industry leaders warn that the measures could inflict lasting financial damage on the sport. Moreover, they warn that the measures could push bettors toward illegal markets.
Pilot Program Shows Limitations
The signatories note that the Gambling Commission’s pilot of affordability checks, launched in 2024, demonstrated that a fully frictionless betting experience cannot be achieved. According to the letter, proceeding with the checks would undermine one of Britain’s most economically significant sports. This sport supports more than 85,000 jobs and contributes over £4 billion to the national economy.
Interim British Horseracing Authority Chair David Jones and CEO Brant Dunshea, along with Jockey Club CEO Jim Mullen and senior trainers such as John Gosden OBE and Paul Nicholls, were among the key signatories. The letter references a Gambling Commission survey showing 66% of punters were uncomfortable with operators accessing credit reference data. It also highlights a petition signed by over 100,000 people in 2024. This petition prompted a Westminster Hall debate.
Risks to the Sport and Black Market
Signatories argue that the pilot results confirm the policy cannot meet the government’s stated standard of being “truly frictionless,” as promised by former minister Stuart Andrew MP. The letter warns that imposing checks could benefit illegal operators. In addition, it notes the Chancellor had already allocated £26 million to the Gambling Commission to combat the black market.
The letter concludes: “Adding a further layer of regulation right now would be at best a grave misjudgement and at worst, a gift to the criminal underworld that benefits from these illegal betting operations.”
By calling for a pause, the racing community seeks to protect both punters and the financial sustainability of the sport. At the same time, they aim to ensure responsible regulation is effectively balanced with industry realities.
