Horse Racing Ireland warned shortfalls in funding 'not sustainable'Ken FoxeHorse Racing Ireland (HRI) warned it was falling way behind its competitors in Great Britain and that shortfalls in funding were no longer sustainable. In a pre-budget presentation, HRI said it was struggling to keep pace just as British racing was about to receive an extra levy to increase prize money. It described how industry sentiment was openly critical in both the domestic and international press with headlines about “unacceptable” prize money. It argued the lack of growth in prize money was a critical factor as there were “increasing cost pressures” across the industry. “Prize money is vital in ensuring that Ireland maintains its position as a world leader in thoroughbred breeding and racing,” the presentation said.

Source: Irish Independent January 07, 2026 16:45 UTC