Jockey Club and Ascot Resign from Racecourse Association Over Governance Disputes
The Jockey Club announced it will join Ascot in resigning from the Racecourse Association (RCA) at the end of the year, according to a statement released on Monday. The departure of the Jockey Club—which owns 15 British racecourses, including Aintree, Cheltenham, Epsom, and Newmarket—marks a significant split in the trade body representing the country’s tracks.
According to the Jockey Club, the decision follows the RCA’s recent governance review. The review was launched in May after Ascot announced its initial decision to quit the organization. However, the RCA’s proposal to replace its traditional one-track, one-vote system with four distinct groups holding a single vote apiece failed to satisfy major stakeholders.
Jim Mullen Cites Stifled Industry Reform and BHA Board Concerns
Jim Mullen, chief executive at the Jockey Club, stated that the governance review proposals fail to address fundamental concerns regarding the RCA’s role in the industry. According to Mullen, the proposed changes would not displace the RCA as the political representative of British racecourses.
“In our view, confirmed by recent discussions, the RCA would continue to vote against necessary changes such as the introduction of an independent British Horseracing Authority board and substantive changes to the fixture list,” Mullen said. He added that the Jockey Club intends to work with Ascot and other like-minded partners to establish a new organization focused on long-term sustainability.
Splitting the Trade Body and Challenging the Arena Racing Company Model
The exit of the Jockey Club and Ascot splits the RCA in two, a division that could widen if other large independent tracks—such as York, Goodwood, Newbury, and Chester—decide to leave as well. The breakaway group stands in contrast to the Arena Racing Company, which operates 16 courses using a business model centered on high fixture volume to service the off-course betting market.
This structural fissure creates a constitutional crisis for the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and incoming chair Simon Cox, who formally takes office on October 1. The RCA nominates two BHA board members based on maintaining status as the most representative body for racecourse owners in Great Britain. Without Ascot, Cheltenham, Aintree, Newmarket, Epsom, and Sandown, the RCA faces challenges in claiming that representative status.
BHA Response to the Governance Crisis
A spokesperson for the BHA stated on Monday that the ruling body will continue to liaise with racecourses and constituent bodies regarding governance structures and consider all proposals. According to the BHA, this engagement includes incoming chair Simon Cox, with a primary priority to ensure British racing remains positioned to support industry growth.
Pro Tip: Keep track of upcoming BHA board announcements and fixture list updates as industry stakeholders navigate the formation of the new breakaway organization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Jockey Club leaving the Racecourse Association?
The Jockey Club is leaving because it believes the RCA stifles necessary industry changes, including the introduction of an independent British Horseracing Authority board and fixture list modifications.
Which racecourses does the Jockey Club own?
The Jockey Club owns 15 British racecourses, prominently including Aintree, Cheltenham, Epsom, and Newmarket.
Who takes over as BHA chair amidst the crisis?
Simon Cox takes up the role of BHA chair formally on October 1, stepping into the position amid ongoing governance and representation debates.
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