The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) expressed "huge disappointment" as the Gambling Commission confirmed the implementation of financial risk assessments, commonly known as affordability checks, for bettors. The BHA warns of "severe financial implications" for the sport and the UK economy, citing concerns that these measures will push gamblers towards the illegal market and reduce tax revenue.

The Gambling Commission, however, states the new approach will use "high-quality data" to identify and support high-spending customers in financial difficulty without imposing unnecessary document checks on the majority of users. The initial phase will see checks triggered by a £5,000 net deposit in a 24-hour period for the largest operators.

Further implementation will apply assessments to customers aged 25 and older who exceed £1,000 net deposit in 24 hours or £3,000 over 90 days. For those under 25, the thresholds are £750 in 24 hours or £2,000 over 90 days. The BHA plans to work with regulators and the betting industry to mitigate the policy's impact.