Key points:
- Participant fees for the BHA will rise by 3.9%
- The funds will be put towards improving technology used in race days and cybersecurity
- A new Racing Digital Hub will be launched next year which will provide transparent explanations of fees
The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) Board has confirmed that participant fees will increase by 3.9% in 2025.
The fees will be invested into BHA services, such as technology used on race days and administrative processes.
A spokesperson for the BHA said: “A decision to increase fees is never something we take lightly. We recognise that this has an impact on individuals and businesses across our industry, those who own, train, ride and look after our horses and play an invaluable role in our collective success.
“We know that you too are facing rising costs and external pressures, and we are immensely grateful for your continued support for British racing.”
The Board has also listed potential cyber security risks and regulatory functions as reasons for the increased fees.
The spokesperson continued: “We are especially grateful to racehorse owners, who continue to show unwavering loyalty despite a challenging economic period. Our sport would not be possible without your significant contribution.
“It is therefore essential that we work to ensure you feel valued and rewarded, through an improved owner experience and increased prize money returns.”
Good to know: The current fees paid by jockeys and trainers include donations to racing charities and rehabilitation of racehorses.
As part of this initiative, a Racing Digital Hub will launch in 2025 to streamline administrative processes for owners and trainers.
This will include a fee structure which breaks down exactly what their fees are being used for.
In a similar move, the BHA released a new educational online portal last month which included three modules, namely Safeguarding and Human Welfare, Anti-Sexual Harassment and Misogyny, and Creating a Safe and Inclusive Sport.
