Prominent British horse trainer John Gosden has expressed strong criticism of the government and the Gambling Commission following the implementation of new gambling affordability checks. The measures, aimed at preventing excessive gambling, have been described by Gosden as potentially damaging to the betting industry and the broader British horse racing sector.

Gosden, a six-time champion trainer, warned that the affordability checks could lead to a significant reduction in betting activity, potentially creating a gap of £250 million in lost revenue for the industry. He argued that these changes were introduced without sufficient parliamentary scrutiny, attributing the decision to the Gambling Commission, an independent regulatory body. According to Gosden, the policy risks pushing punters toward unregulated black market channels, which could undermine both the industry and consumer protections.

“We have a wonderful industry, but the government seems to pay no attention,” Gosden said. “They’ve let a quango in the Gambling Commission set the rules and force it through without a parliamentary debate. This bizarre rule will send punters to the black market. It is the most ridiculous policy.”

The introduction of these affordability checks aligns with government efforts to address gambling-related harm, though critics like Gosden argue that the measures may have unintended negative economic consequences for the sport and bookmakers.

Separately, Gosden highlighted a promising prospect in the upcoming St Leger Stakes, one of Britain’s classic flat races. His colt, Point Of Law, trained alongside Thady Gosden, recently secured a comfortable win in the Bahrain Trophy at Newmarket, demonstrating both speed and stamina. Following this performance, bookmakers have shortened the horse's odds from 20-1 to 12-1 for the St Leger.

Royal racing manager John Warren also expressed optimism about Point Of Law’s chances, stating, “That was wonderful to see. The St Leger has to be an option.”

The St Leger, scheduled later this year, remains one of the most prestigious races in the British flat racing calendar, and Point Of Law’s recent form has positioned him as a contender to watch. Meanwhile, the industry continues to grapple with the financial implications of tightened affordability controls on betting, with concerns about future revenue and the sustainability of betting markets remaining prominent.