Independent Research Commissioned for Welsh Horse Racing
A pioneering independent study has been launched to quantify the economic contribution of the horse racing industry to Wales. This marks the first formal assessment of the sport's direct and indirect economic inputs to the region. The research, commissioned by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), will be conducted by Cardiff-based consultancy Arad Research.
Funding and Scope of the Study
The project is financially supported by the Arena Racing Company (ARC) and Chester Race Company (CRC), which operate Welsh racecourses such as Chepstow, Ffos Las, and Bangor-on-Dee. Over the summer, surveys will target stakeholders, local businesses, and spectators attending meetings at these venues. Additionally, the study will evaluate the economic impact of betting related to Welsh horse racing, contributing to an overall expected economic benefit of tens of millions of pounds annually.
No Threat of a Ban
Despite the closure of Wales’ last greyhound track in Ystrad Mynach due to legislation, there is no indication that the Plaid Cymru-led administration in Cardiff Bay intends to pursue a ban on horse racing. The research is designed to provide clear evidence of the industry’s importance.
Stakeholder Perspectives
Greg Swift, Director of Communications and Corporate Affairs at the BHA, stated: “We’re delighted to commission Arad Research to carry out this important work on behalf of the thriving and historic horse racing industry in Wales. The sport is undoubtedly an economic and cultural powerhouse in Wales. But we want clear evidence to present to the Government that shows the significance of the industry across the country and the role it plays in growing regional economies and communities. The survey is crucial to supporting the research and the economic evidence, so we are asking Welsh racing and breeding businesses to support and contribute to Arad’s work and help us demonstrate to policy makers the essential role horse racing plays in Wales.”
Hefin Thomas, Director of Arad Research, commented: “We’re pleased to have been commissioned to undertake this important research which will examine the economic contribution of horse racing in Wales. This will include consideration of the direct impact of activities at Chepstow, Ffos Las, and Bangor-on-Dee racecourses as well as wider economic impacts throughout the sector and supply chain.”
Phil Bell, Regional Director of ARC, which operates Chepstow and Ffos Las, added: “We very much look forward to working with Arad, our colleagues at BHA, Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse, and everyone across the world of Welsh horse racing to make sure that we can show exactly what a success story our sport is, and how important it is to a wide range of communities in Wales.”
Louise Stewart, Chief Executive of Chester Racing Company, which owns Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse, said: “We feel that it is really important for Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse to collaborate with the BHA and other Welsh racecourses to support this research project. Horse racing plays a significant role in Wales, supporting jobs, attracting tourism, and generating economic activity in communities. While we witness its impact in the North Wales economy, robust evidence is vital to ensuring the industry’s value is fully understood as we continue to work closely with government. We look forward to the findings of the report, which will help showcase the contribution our racecourses make to the sporting and economic landscape of Wales. Just as importantly, it will provide valuable insights to help shape the future growth and success of the industry.”
Looking Ahead
The study is expected to deliver a comprehensive analysis later this year, providing policymakers with concrete data to support the sport's role in Wales. The findings will also inform strategies for sustaining and enhancing the industry's economic footprint across the country.
