BHA launches independent review of horseracing's economic impact in Wales
2026-07-31
Source: Global Gaming Insider
The BHA has commissioned an independent study into horseracing's economic impact in Wales, with Cardiff-based Arad set to survey the industry and racegoers before delivering a bilingual report this autumn. The work is funded by Arena Racing Company and Chester Race Company.
The British Horseracing Authority has commissioned an external study to determine how much the sport contributes to Wales's economy. The independent assessment, expected to conclude in the autumn, is being positioned as the first evidence-based analysis of its kind for racing in Wales, with results intended to strengthen the industry's case with policymakers and support future promotional and advocacy campaigns.
Cardiff-based research outfit Arad has been appointed to lead the project. The firm specialises in policy analysis, programme evaluation, and economic-impact assessment, and has previously carried out assignments for the Welsh Government. Funding for the study comes from Arena Racing Company, which represents Chepstow and Ffos Las, alongside Chester Race Company, which represents Bangor-on-Dee.
As part of the work, Arad will survey businesses and stakeholders across Welsh horseracing, as well as racegoers attending fixtures through the remainder of the summer. The final report is set to be published in both English and Welsh.
Arad director Hefin Thomas said the research will look at both the direct economic effects of activity at Wales's three racecourses and the secondary impacts rippling through the industry's supply chain. Greg Swift, the BHA's director of communications and corporate affairs, said the exercise should produce solid evidence of racing's importance to regional economies and communities, and he encouraged racing and breeding businesses to engage with the survey process. Representatives from ARC and CRC also voiced support, noting that the report could highlight the sport's contribution to employment, tourism, and local economic vitality, while offering a firmer factual basis for future dialogue with government.
The move comes amid ongoing scrutiny of British racing's finances and governance. It follows the BHA's criticism of the government's decision to maintain the current horserace betting levy rate, the appointment of nine new members to its independent Judicial Panel, and a BHA blog covering affordability checks, sponsorship rules, and gambling policy oversight.