The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has commissioned an independent economic impact study to assess the contribution of horseracing to the Welsh economy.
The research, which is expected to be completed this autumn, will provide the first independent, evidence-based analysis of the sector’s economic role in Wales.
The findings are intended to help demonstrate the industry's value to policymakers while supporting future promotional and advocacy efforts.
The project will be undertaken by Cardiff-based research organisation Arad, which specialises in policy research, programme evaluation and economic impact analysis.
Arad has previously carried out work for a range of organisations, including the Welsh Government.
The study is being financially supported by Arena Racing Company (ARC), representing Chepstow and Ffos Las racecourses, and Chester Race Company (CRC), representing Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse.
As part of the research, Arad will conduct surveys with businesses and stakeholders across the Welsh horseracing industry, as well as racegoers attending fixtures throughout the remainder of the summer. A final report will be published in both English and Welsh.
BHA Director of Communications and Corporate Affairs Greg Swift said the study would provide robust evidence of horseracing's contribution to regional economies and communities across Wales. He encouraged racing and breeding businesses to participate in the survey process to help demonstrate the industry's significance.
Arad Director Hefin Thomas said the research would examine both the direct economic impact of activities at Wales' three racecourses and the wider effects generated throughout the industry's supply chain.
Representatives from ARC and CRC also welcomed the initiative, stating that the report would help highlight horseracing's role in supporting employment, tourism and local economic activity, while providing evidence to inform future discussions with government.
The announcement follows a period of scrutiny for British racing's finances and governance, including the BHA's criticism of the Government's decision to maintain the horserace betting levy rate, the appointment of nine new members to its independent Judicial Panel, and a BHA blog addressing affordability checks, sponsorship rules and gambling policy oversight.
The report will examine the economic impact of all three Welsh racecourses – Chepstow, Ffos Las and Bangor-on-Dee – as well as the wider horseracing supply chain across Wales
