Towcester racecourse published an announcement on their website this morning that, in partnership with Betway, horse racing will return to their Northamptonshire track in 2027.
The track permanently closed for racing in 2019 after collapsing in administration, acquiring debts over £1.3 million. The track was responsible for AP McCoy’s 4000th career win, with Mountain Tunes landing the Weatherby’s Novices’ Hurdle.
The partnership comes at an unsettling time for British Racing, in light of the Gambling Commission’s position on affordability checks. Many leading firms have extracted their sponsorships from parts of the sports, but Betway have ensured their commitment.
Refurbishments of the course and facility’s worth in excess of £2m are already ongoing.
Betway’s PR Manager Lewis Knowles, via the Towcester racecourse website, said: “Towcester has such a rich history within British racing, and we’re delighted to be partnering with the team there to bring horse racing back to what is such an iconic racecourse.
“As Principal Strategic Partners, we plan to offer a truly unique experience. For racegoers, owners, trainers, and jockeys at Betway Towcester Racecourse. The hard work is already well underway as the team prepare the track and facilities for racing’s return.”
After recent horse-racing docuseries, such as Champions: Full Gallop and Horsepower, racing fans will be treated to another. Knowles said: “We’re also looking forward to documenting this journey through a fly-on-the-wall series to be released in 2027.”
“This partnership turns that vision into a reality” – Mike Davis
Mike Davis, Chairman of Orchestrate, who own the venue, spoke of the ‘ambition’ return racing to Towcester. Davis said: “We are thrilled to welcome Betway as principal strategic partner of the refurbished racecourse. It has always been our ambition to bring horse racing back to Towcester. For the local community and fans of the sport. This partnership turns that vision into a reality.
“We are now working with the BHA to secure the necessary racecourse licences. To enable us to race in the Autumn of 2027. Positive conversations are also underway to finalise fixtures for that period. It is amazing to see the racing community all working together to promote the sport.”
Fermor Land’s Managing Director added: “I am delighted that National Hunt racing will be returning to Towcester after nearly ten years. Due to the fantastic work and investment from Richard Thomas and Mike Davis of Orchestrate, and the team at Betway.
It is a massive shot in the arm for both the sport and the local area. Our recent Towcester Parklands consultation highlighted the popularity of National Hunt Racing. And the racecourse will remain at the very heart of our long-term plans for the area.”