France Galop proposes ending gallop racing at 31 hippodromes by 2027

France Galop has proposed a major restructuring of the French horse racing landscape, aiming to rationalize the industry by potentially ending gallop racing meetings at 31 hippodromes starting January 1, 2027. The proposal, presented by a dedicated task force, comes amid a difficult economic climate for the organization.

Under the current recommendations, several premium sites could see a total cessation of gallop racing, including Amiens, Les Sables-d'Olonne, Saint-Malo, and Tarbes. The Tarbes hippodrome is specifically noted as being at risk of a complete cessation of all equine activities. Other locations, such as Le Touquet, Vittel, Châteaubriant, Cholet, Senonnes, La Teste, and Aix-en-Provence, may see the removal of obstacle racing while maintaining flat racing.

These measures do not affect Le Trot, the other major French racing federation. The proposal is currently in a consultation phase, with a final vote expected on September 25 to determine the implementation of these changes.