The £40 million blow: how affordability checks are already hitting horseracing

Cruddace estimates that affordability checks could cost the British horseracing industry close to £40m a year. The sport is still recovering from the financial impact of Covid-19. Racecourse Media Group has seen a decline in online betting turnover since the early summer. There is anecdotal evidence that high-staking punters are now betting offshore to avoid affordability checked. There are also more people using unlicensed betting websites. They are more profitable. In two years, the number of unlicenced betting website users has grown to 460,000 from 210,00.

Cruddace has written to the Gambling Commission to express his concerns about the loss of high-stakes customers. Phil Walker, UK managing director for William Hill's owner 888, says the government's review of gambling regulation is needed. Harrington says affordability checks should be proportionate. The review is not targeted at racing. It will impact all customers online. William HIll is keen to get a level playing field and consistent regulation. They understand their customers' frustration with intrusive checks. There is a need to protect the vulnerable from harm. "The vast majority of people who these checks would be imposed on don't have a problem and wouldn't be described as at risk from gambling-related harm".

Harrington hopes to have productive conversations with the government and the Gambling Commission about affordability checks. She believes racing's message is beginning to get through. The government's gambling white paper is due soon. British racing leaders will be hoping that both ministers and G gambling commission fully understand the plight British horseracing faces. The Front Runner is available exclusively to Members' Club Ultimate subscribers. Chris Cook provides his take on the day's biggest stories and tips for the upcoming racing every morning from Monday to Friday.