The Gambling Commission has rolled out the first stage of affordability checks. These will affect roughly 0.5% of online gamblers in the United Kingdom. The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has issued a blunt response though, suggesting that there will be “severe implications”.
Here is today’s racing news round-up as big news breaks in the betting world.
Affordability checks to begin, BHA responds
The Gambling Commission has announced that the first set of affordability checks will begin under certain criteria. Those who spend more than £1,000 within a 24-hour window will be subject to risk assessments. Less invasive checks will also apply to those who spend £3,000 over a rolling 90 days. To start the process, those spending more than £5,000 in 24 hours will be immediately identified, affecting roughly 0.5% of online gamblers. Under-25s will have lower thresholds targeted. (BBC)
The BHA has unleashed a scathing response. Chief executive Brant Dunshea has accused the government and the Gambling Commission of an “abdication of duty” in the face of betting reforms. Dunshea also suggested that “government scrutiny” should have been required for “a policy decision of this magnitude”. He hopes that the opening set of checks will be subject to independent review as to their success. (Racing Post)
Frankie Dettori on road to recovery after crash
Frankie Dettori is continuing his recovery from injuries sustained in a car crash last week. The 55-year-old sustained numerous broken ribs in a crash on the outskirts of Newmarket. After spending multiple nights in hospital, Dettori’s Tuesday statement read “I am very relieved that it was not worse”. Dettori has not ruled out the possibility of riding in the St Leger Legends race at Doncaster in September, which he had signed up for in June. (Racing TV)
Constitution Hill not entered in the Ebor
Nicky Henderson’s superstar Constitution Hill has not been entered in the Ebor at York. The 1m6f handicap is the richest race of its kind in the UK. It had appeared the obvious target for the former Champion Hurdler, who has won both starts on the level on all-weather surfaces at Southwell and Kempton. Those had come over 1m4f in the spring, but has not been seen since. Henderson had initially entered Constitution Hill before removing him before the deadline. It awaits to be seen if an issue has arisen, or what his next target will be. (Sporting Life)
Asfoora to have one last dance at Goodwood
Group 1-winning sprinter Asfoora is to have one more race before retirement at Glorious Goodwood. The Australian mare has become a staple in British sprint races over 5f over the last few seasons. However, this has been her least successful season, with a best finish of seventh in the King Charles III Stakes at Royal Ascot in a field of 26. Since then tough, she has been last of nine at Sandown and will be retired after contesting the King George Qatar Stakes at Goodwood. (Racing Post)