Jockey Club CEO Jim Mullen has said he is holding direct discussions with bookmaker chief executives over future sponsorship arrangements, as racecourses assess replacement revenue streams following changes in betting sponsorship activity.
Speaking on Luck on Sunday, Mullen said the organisation has already begun adapting its strategy as some sponsors step away from existing agreements. He said racecourses are seeking alternative commercial opportunities while maintaining dialogue with betting operators.
Mullen said: "We have been doing that, because the ones that are walking away and those that have walked away from some sponsorship are looking elsewhere."
He added that the Jockey Club remains open to new deals with bookmakers despite competition from other racecourse groups for commercial partnerships.
Addressing remarks attributed to the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), Mullen said his discussions with operators are conducted independently of trade body messaging.
Mullen said: "I speak directly with the chief executives of the bookmakers and I have a very positive relationship with them."
He added that he has met several bookmaker executives during the Cheltenham Festival and confirmed discussions are underway regarding future partnerships. Mullen said significant investment is expected but declined to provide details of planned announcements.
The comments come as British racing continues to evaluate the impact of regulatory developments and wider commercial pressures on funding models linked to betting sponsorship and media rights.
In February 2026, a municipal court in São Paulo ordered income from the Latin America Open tennis tournament to be redirected to offset tax liabilities owed by the Jockey Club of São Paulo, highlighting broader financial pressures affecting racing organisations globally.
Mullen said discussions with bookmakers are continuing around potential announcements tied to future sponsorship investment
