Analyzing the BHA’s New Racing Rules and How They Compare to the USA

Horse racing first came onto the scene back in 700 BCE during the Greek Olympic games, and since then it’s grown leaps and bounds in many Western countries. It is classed as the oldest sport of all time, and although it’s got history, the game’s concept has stayed very much the same. The end goal for horse owners and jockeys is stamina and speed, meaning there is very little that can change, as opposed to many new sports in today’s world. 

One thing that is constantly evolving in horse racing is the rules and regulations depending on what country your horse race takes place in. As of June 2024, the British Horse Racing Authority (BHA) in the UK announced a new set of rules aimed at leveling up the integrity and fairness of this monumental sport. There have always been issues in racing, such as doping, conditions of race – and animal welfare, which is why the regulatory bodies are taking a stance and trying to address this. We’re going to be investigating the new rules, comparing them against the US’s, and seeing how different racing authorities approach many regulations. 

New regulations declared by the British Horse Racing Authority 

The British Horse Racing Authority (BHA) announced that they were setting minor, yet important changes in the rules of racing – which come into effect on the 1st of July 2024. They have taken into account some feedback from participants and the National Trainers Federation’s Equine Welfare Panel and, therefore, are combating all that goes wrong in the world of horse racing. 

1. Icing before the race 

Previously, racehorses in the UK were allowed to have ice on their bodies up until two hours before the race – however, the new regulations are set to prevent this. From the 1st of July, the use of ice on horses after they arrive at the racecourse will not be permitted by the BHA, unless agreed and approved by a vet. Ice is known for masking pain and helping racehorses with any injuries. This new rule now ensures that veterinarians can spot any injured horses before the race, and therefore can prevent further injuries.

If we compare this to the US, then the use of ice is usually allowed – but the regulations all vary depending on your state. This new UK rule is known as the Rule (E) 9.2. – and it will also help when it comes to horse racing odds, as punters can now see a horse in their top form, without ice masking any pain. 

2. Stable equipment 

From the 1st of July, BHA veterinary officers must give prior approval to all horse equipment in the stables before a horse race. This includes magnetic rugs, magnetic boots, and massage pads – which were all previously allowed in horse races across the world. This new regulation is to stop any unauthorized equipment being used on a horse, which may affect the animal’s body – therefore rigging the race. This will be known as the Rule (E) 9.3. – and only the UK currently will adopt this new regulation, as the USA permits certain equipment, though it again depends on the state. 

3. Lip chains 

Paragraph 18 in the BHA authority regulations will now bring in a strict rule against lip chains on horses. They can now only be used if the chain is hidden and connected to a lead rope, as long as it is under the control of the handler. The new rule allows handlers to use this lip chain without veterinary permission, although usage will be checked – to make sure the horse’s safety is prioritized. 

This set of regulations is going to be put in place next month in the UK to decipher between proper and improper horse handling and prevent any discomfort before a race. Lip chains are currently permitted across the US, and although they are required by some handlers to have control over the horse – the BHA has good reasoning for enforcing this new regulation. We’re seeing horse-focused other regulations come in across other countries too.

3. Sensory hair 

Sensory hairs, which are the hairs around the mouth, eyes, nose, and ears of horses, have often been removed on racehorses due to cosmetic reasons. Previously, the hairs were removed to keep up standards with one another, but now removal is being banned before racing. These whiskers are there to provide sensory feedback to the horse, which sends signals about the horse’s surroundings – and if removed, then the horse’s tactile function is compromised. The UK is bringing this rule in to prevent the horse from having accidents, as the whiskers are used to measure a safe distance between the horse’s face and other objects. Noted as Rule (D) 3.3., this is a regulation that will soon follow in the USA – as it is a more humane thing to do, and therefore better for the horse in its race. 

The UK was the first to bring in horse racing as a sport back in history, meaning it’s usually the leader in terms of rules and regulations. From what we can see, other countries follow suit, and it’s welcomed because of the need to maintain high standards of welfare for horses everywhere, and improve current conditions.