The British Horseracing Authority has unveiled a new equality, diversity and inclusion strategy after research revealed a 'consistent pattern' of racism in the sport. A study of the Urban Equestrian Academy found that all 20 participants from diverse backgrounds reported experiencing racism, with some sharing they had contemplated suicide due to their treatment.

In a separate survey, 40% of respondents said they had witnessed or experienced inappropriate behavior based on ethnicity or cultural background, including verbal abuse using racist language. The strategy also addresses the significant underrepresentation of women in racing, where only 25% of jockeys are female despite women making up 70% of racing school students.

The BHA's head of diversity and inclusion, Rose Grissell, emphasized that the strategy is 'rooted in evidence' and shaped by lived experiences of people working in racing. The plan includes five key proposals: strengthening leadership, building equitable practices, improving education, better supporting inclusive culture, and engaging new audiences to make the sport more accessible.