The Racing Foundation has awarded £963,094 in charitable funding during its first funding round of 2026, reinforcing its commitment to supporting the long-term development and sustainability of the British horseracing and Thoroughbred breeding industry. The latest grants bring the Foundation’s total investment under its 2025–2027 strategic plan to more than £4 million, reflecting a strong focus on improving outcomes for racing’s people, enhancing equine welfare, and advancing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) priorities.
The funding supports a diverse range of projects across the racing sector, including education and training programs, scientific research, environmental sustainability initiatives, community engagement activities, and equine welfare improvements. Key beneficiaries include organizations such as the National Stud, National Horseracing College, Riding A Dream Academy, and the Horserace Betting Levy Board for equine science and research projects.
Among the major initiatives receiving support is the continued development of the racing industry’s environmental sustainability agenda. Funding will help support the Industry Head of Environmental Sustainability role and the implementation of “Racing Resilient,” a strategy designed to guide British racing toward environmental sustainability by 2030. The strategy aims to reduce the sport’s environmental footprint while helping the industry adapt to the growing challenges posed by climate change.
The Foundation is also investing in social impact through support for the Industry Head of Social Impact role and the rollout of “Powering Positive Change,” a long-term strategy focused on strengthening the positive contributions horseracing makes to society. This initiative seeks to create a structured framework for community engagement, inclusion, and social responsibility throughout the racing industry.
Education and community outreach remain important priorities within this funding round. Support has been provided to New Beginnings, a racehorse retraining and rehoming center in York, which delivers a specialized educational program using equine-assisted learning techniques. The project combines alternative education pathways with the therapeutic and developmental benefits of working alongside former racehorses, helping young people develop confidence, skills, and engagement with learning.
The Foundation is also backing National Racehorse Week, a nationwide event that offers the public behind-the-scenes access to training yards, stud farms, retraining centers, and other areas of the racing industry. Funding will specifically support the creation of pop-up “Urban Stables” in major cities, bringing racehorses directly into communities, schools, hospitals, care homes, and charitable organizations. The initiative helps broaden public understanding of horseracing while creating opportunities for people who may not otherwise have access to equine experiences.
According to Racing Foundation Chief Executive Tansy Challis, the funding round reflects both the immediate needs and long-term ambitions of British racing. The grants are intended to encourage collaboration across the industry while addressing important challenges related to workforce development, environmental sustainability, social impact, and horse welfare.
Through these investments, the Racing Foundation continues to play a vital role in supporting innovation, research, education, community engagement, and responsible industry development, helping ensure that British horseracing remains sustainable, inclusive, and resilient for future generations.
