Historic Day for Horse Racing Sector in France

_{François-Xavier de Chevigny and other horse racing professionals protest proposed betting taxes in Paris. (Image: Angelo Hornak/Alamy)}

It has been an historic day in France as professionals gathered in Paris to protest against proposed new taxes on betting. It was the first time all horse races have been cancelled in France. 

Up to 26,000 horse racing professionals from 11 different unions took part in the protest march from Denfert-Rocheteau to Place Vauban held at 1 p.m. today. Organisers say the projected €115 million tax bill could cripple the industry. 

The movement has been given the name ‘journée filière morte’, or ‘dead sector day’, due to the cancellation of every horse race in the country. A momentous and historic event for all the wrong reasons, including an estimated loss of €2.5 million in income, according to the union association des entraîneurs de galop, François-Xavier de Chevigny.

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Potential Huge Losses Prompt Protests and Rejection of Proposals 

Speaking to the Connexion he said, “This is a powerful and symbolic move. It means we are ready to make a financial sacrifice of €2.5 million to show our determination to the government.”  

“We are demonstrating to signal our presence to the government, to say, ‘Do not forget us when the time comes to make choices.’ added de Chevigny.

The French government plans on raising taxes on sports betting in order to combat debt. The government has retracted one proposal after the sector estimated that professionals could suffer from an €80 million cut or 10% of their revenues.   

A second amendment was added on October 28th, which the industry estimated would lead to €35 million in lost revenue. This was also rejected by MPs.

Fears Proposals Could Still Manifest

There is still a fear that the amendments could be reintroduced as part of the ongoing negotiations around the proposed 2025 budget.

The bill is currently being revised back-and-forth between the Assemblée nationale and the Senate under negotiations that are expected to last until December 21.

Mr. de Chevingny told Connexion, “We are caught in a lose/lose loop right now, as both the government and the industry are bleeding money. Let’s turn it a win/win back again.”

There could be more protests if the sector’s demands are not listened to.