UK Greens Call for Horse Racing Ban over Gambling and Animal Welfare Concerns

^{Pictured: Zack Polanski, сo-leader of the UK Green Party}

Co-leader of the UK Green Party of England and Wales, Zack Polanski, has called for a ban on horse racing, linking the sport to gambling and animal welfare concerns. His comments, made during the Grand National festival, drew criticism from politicians and industry representatives, Daily Mail reports.

Polanski has consistently opposed such events, describing horse racing as “a combination of gambling and animal cruelty.” He has also argued that “there is something wrong with society if this is considered a sport.”

Other politicians were quick to criticise the proposal. Nigel Huddleston said the idea was “out of touch with reality,” noting that the horse racing industry contributes around £4 billion annually to the UK economy and plays a significant role in regional development.

According to the British Horseracing Authority, the sector supports around 85,000 jobs. The Grand National, held at Aintree Racecourse, generates approximately £60 million for the local economy each year.

Nigel Farage also criticised the proposal, calling it “absurd” and emphasising that horse racing is part of the UK’s national traditions.

Beyond rhetoric, the Greens have previously included plans in their platform to phase out the use of animals in horse racing and greyhound racing.

Earlier, Gambling Park reported that around 8 million Britons are expected to place bets on the Grand National, which runs from April 9 to 11.