British racing gets more prize money, other improvements for '26

The British Horseracing Authority is implementing measures aimed at increasing the supply and retention of horses in Great Britain.

The measures were announced as the BHA published its 2026 fixture list. They will be supported by about $5.9 million in additional prize money as part of a funding program of about $103.5 million from the horserace betting levy board.

Developmental flat and jump races will be boosted by an increase in total prize money of at least $4.3 million, with the investment in the novice and maiden program seeking to incentivise ownership and make Britain a more attractive prospect for horses of all levels to be based, according to a BHA news release.

Novice and maiden races on the flat will be run for at least $13,400, or $10,700 for restricted races. Over jumps, novice and maiden hurdles will offer at least $13,400, with an increased program of novice chases running for at least $20,100.

Minimum value for stakes races

Note: 1 British pound is worth $1.34 at time of publication. 

In addition, a new bonus series for point-to-point horses, worth an overall $335,700, will help maintain the sphere as a developing ground for future stars and enhance the pipeline of good national hunt horses progressing to race under rules.

There also will be particular emphasis in 2026 on growing the supply chain of high-quality horses, part of wider and longer-term efforts to ensure the world’s best competitors are bred, owned, trained and raced on British shores, according to the release.

Prize money for the flat black-type program will be increased by over $2.7 million to help strengthen Britain’s pattern races. This includes funding increases for the Group 1 July Cup, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes, Sussex Stakes and Juddmonte International Stakes, making these elite midsummer contests even more attractive for domestic and international connections.

Click here for the list of 2026 fixtures.

Further steps will be taken in 2026 to make it easier for fans to identify and engage with British racing’s showpiece occasions, with a refined number of premier racedays, better-defined flat and jump seasons and 10-minute gaps prior to major races on Saturday afternoons to support promotion of the top clashes.

Race volume remains largely unchanged next year, but tactical adjustments will continue to be made throughout the calendar to deliver a competitive race program and more consistent field sizes, while code breaks and rider restricted meetings will provide rest periods for jockeys, according to the release.

There will also be a trial of earlier finish times at floodlit fixtures during the first nine weeks of the year and greater structure around finish times more generally, providing improved support and consistency for those working to deliver the fixture list.