Champion jumps trainer Dan Skelton criticized the UK government’s decision to increase the duty on machine gaming from 20 percent to 25 percent, following the announcement in the recent budget. Speaking after a successful treble at Newton Abbot, Skelton described the sector as being made an “easy target” by the tax rise and warned it could have negative consequences for the future of horse racing.

Prior to the budget announcement, there had been speculation that the machine duty might rise as high as 40 percent. Chancellor John Healey ultimately confirmed a more moderate increase of five percentage points. Despite this, Skelton expressed frustration with the measure, emphasizing that the government appears to overlook the specific impact on rural communities and the racing industry. He noted that horse racing is the second most widely supported sport in the UK after football and urged policymakers to consider its contributions more carefully.

Brant Dunshea, chief executive of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), echoed concerns over the tax increase. He warned that the hike in machine gaming duty poses a significant threat to the viability of betting shops nationwide, with the potential to force the closure of hundreds or even thousands of outlets. Dunshea highlighted that British racing could face losses of up to £57 million annually as a result.

The gambling sector has faced increasing taxation in recent years, with the government citing the need to regulate betting activities and generate revenue. However, industry representatives continue to argue that raising duties in this manner may damage horse racing’s financial sustainability and broader cultural role. The latest adjustment in the gaming machine duty adds to ongoing debates about the balance between government regulation and support for sports reliant on gambling revenues.