The board of Taunton Racecourse announces that it has served notice to resign its membership of the RCA with effect from 31 December 2026.
British Racing, coupled with its symbiotically related wagering industry, delivers annually to the UK economic value of many £ billions, employs hundreds of thousands of people (many in rural areas), provides entertainment for millions and attracts meaningful domestic and international investment and profile for the UK in what is now a globally connected industry. It should accordingly in the 21st century be governed as a modern regulated industry and sport.
Taunton, which invests all its returns into its venue and its racing, supports an aspirational vision for British racing leading with quality at its core and incorporating an appropriate developmental and handicap programme shaped to maximise competitiveness and value. Year on year investment in quality bloodstock, which feeds down to all levels is, we believe, a key foundation for a healthy British racing industry.
Taunton believes that the BHA should be mandated and empowered to govern British Racing effectively and dispassionately in its overall best interests within such a vision. It can only do this if its decision making is independent of vested conflicts of interest within the industry / sport.
Taunton has been so advocating to the RCA since July 2025 and provided a detailed submission to the latest RCA review to this effect.
Patrick Davis, Taunton’s CEO said, “British Racing needs the BHA to be able to advance the industry and sport. Change and unity is needed around its governing body rather than factional groupings, which Taunton does not believe will be delivered through the status quo. Our board has therefore concluded, after careful consideration, that it should now resign its RCA membership and engage directly with the BHA and the HBLB on industry governance and central funding matters. We acknowledge the value of the RCA’s trade association services and would consider rejoining in future with an independent governance structure in place.”