Enhanced crowd numbers and livestock sales, coupled with a decline in novice proprietors, in Ireland's equestrian sector
In the opening months of 2025, Irish horse racing has witnessed a surge in both racecourse attendances and bloodstock sales, signalling a strong showing for the sport domestically [1][3]. Overall attendance reached 566,377—a 6.9% increase from the previous year—with major events, overseas investment, and a recovery from weather disruptions playing significant roles [1][3][4].
Key Highlights
Attendance Growth
Attendance at Irish horse racing events increased by 6.9% in the first half of the year, reaching 566,377 [1]. This growth was driven by a successful Punchestown Festival, which drew 136,651 attendees, up 15% from 2024 [1][3][4].
Bloodstock Sales Boom
Bloodstock sales at public auction increased by 17.1%, reaching €68.4 million [1]. This surge was notably fuelled by international buyers, highlighting Ireland’s continued global appeal as a source of quality horses [1].
Recovery from Weather Disruptions
The previous year (2024) saw abnormally wet spring weather, which led to multiple fixture cancellations and rescheduling. By comparison, the first half of 2025 benefited from a more favourable weather pattern, allowing for smoother scheduling and higher attendance [2].
Overseas Investment in Bloodstock
The rise in bloodstock sales was notably fuelled by international buyers, suggesting that Ireland’s reputation for breeding excellence is attracting significant external capital [1].
Stable Sponsorship and Prize Money
Race sponsorship levels held steady at €4.6 million, matching the previous year, while prize money saw a modest increase of 1.6% to €31.5 million, helped by targeted increases in minimum values [1].
Areas of Concern
Decline in New Owners
Despite the broader positive trends, the number of new racehorse owners registered fell by 15% compared to the same period last year, continuing a concerning downward trajectory [1][2]. Active owners are still up slightly, but this drop in new entrants could signal future challenges for the industry's grassroots and long-term sustainability.
Flat Racing Decline
There was a 7.8% decrease in Flat race entries, with a 2.7% drop in runners, even as jumps entries and runners increased [1]. This may reflect shifting interests among participants or breeders, or possibly the relative costs and rewards of the two codes.
Future Outlook
Positive Economic Impact
Healthy attendance and strong bloodstock sales are a clear economic boon, supporting jobs and infrastructure in rural Ireland and reinforcing the sector’s importance to the national economy. International investment, in particular, is a key driver of growth and a sign of global confidence in Irish bloodstock [1].
Need for Sustainable Ownership Growth
The decline in new owners is a red flag. Without measures to encourage new participants, the industry risks a shrinking talent pool and diminishing public engagement over time. This could impact both the breeding sector and the sport’s social license to operate, especially if younger demographics are less engaged [1].
Prize Money Pressure
While prize money has increased, owner and trainer groups are calling for greater investment from HRI. Prize money is a critical factor in keeping the racing industry competitive and attractive for owners, particularly as costs rise [2].
Potential for Further Growth
The success of marquee events like Punchestown suggests that the Irish racing product remains highly marketable. Expanding the appeal of other fixtures and addressing the Flat racing decline could provide avenues for future growth [1].
Summary Table: Key Metrics for Irish Horse Racing (Jan–Jun 2025)
| Metric | 2025 Value | Change YOY | |------------------------------|-----------------------------------|----------------------| | Attendance | 566,377 | +6.9% | | Bloodstock Sales | €68.4 million | +17.1% | | New Owners Registered | 412 | –15% | | Race Sponsorship | €4.6 million | No change | | Prize Money Paid | €31.5 million (Jan–Jun) | +1.6% | | Total Fixtures | 173 | No change | | Races Held | 1,271 | –5 | | Entries | 26,765 | –3.3% | | Flat Race Entries | | –7.8% |
Conclusion
Irish horse racing is enjoying a period of strong attendance and bloodstock sales, buoyed by major events, overseas investment, and a recovery from weather-disrupted prior years [1][3][4]. However, the industry faces headwinds from a decline in new owners and Flat racing participation, while pressure mounts to increase prize money. The sector’s future hinges on its ability to attract and retain new owners, sustain international investment, and ensure prize money keeps pace with rising costs and expectations [1][2]. Targeted initiatives to engage new participants and support the Flat code may be essential to secure the industry’s long-term health.
On course, Tote betting fell by €0.2m, or 5.3 percent.The number of horses in the care of a licensed trainer declared racing inactive was 2,888.The number of horses in training declared racing active by their trainer increased to 8,594 from 8,394.On-course bookmaker betting increased by 14.1 percent to €35.7m.HRI (Horse Racing Ireland) plans to increase prize-money to maintain international competitiveness and reward owners for their investment.Total on-course betting reached €39.3m, up 12 percent.The active owners increased by 2.6 percent to 3,860.
- The surge in horse racing attendance and bloodstock sales in Ireland signifies a strong showing for the sport, with international buyers contributing significantly to the bloodstock boom, demonstrating the sport's relevance in the health-and-wellness and sports sectors.
- Despite the positive attendance growth, the horse racing industry faces concerns, such as a decline in new racehorse owners and a drop in Flat race entries, which may influence the industry's long-term sustainability and public engagement.
- Moving forward, Irish horse racing should focus on strategies to encourage new participant growth, expand the appeal of other fixtures, address the Flat racing decline, and increase prize money to remain competitive and attractive for owners, all while maintaining international investment and a healthy economic impact.
