Hansard, a racehorse competing during the first day of the Cheltenham Festival, tragically died after sustaining a fatal injury while running on the flat. The incident occurred shortly after the second race of the day, the Arkle Novices' Chase.
According to a statement from The Jockey Club, “While running on the flat, Hansard sustained a fatal injury. He was promptly dismounted and attended by a team of professionals.” Cheltenham Racecourse also released a statement expressing their condolences: “Hansard was quickly dismounted and immediately assisted by expert veterinary professionals. Following their assessment, it was concluded that euthanasia was the most humane option to protect the horse’s welfare.”
Horse racing, like all sports, carries inherent risks. However, The Jockey Club, which owns 15 UK racecourses including Cheltenham and Aintree, continuously strives to minimise these dangers through rigorous welfare measures. Since 2000, the racing industry has invested over £63 million in equine welfare initiatives such as veterinary science, education, and research.
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British racing benefits from oversight by an independently chaired Horse Welfare Board. Its strategic plan, ‘A Life Well Lived,’ is already producing positive results. Notably, the fall rate in races has declined for 21 consecutive years and currently stands at just 1.98%. In 2025, the fatal injury rate was exceptionally low at 0.22% out of 86,300 runners.
Several safety enhancements have been implemented based on scientific research. For example, racecourse jump markers were changed from orange to white to align with equine vision studies from Exeter University. Additionally, padded hurdles were introduced after data demonstrated they could reduce fallers by 11%. Every fatality is followed by a detailed review within 48 hours to ensure continuous learning and improvement.
The horse racing industry regularly collaborates with prominent welfare organisations, including World Horse Welfare, the RSPCA, and Blue Cross, to uphold the highest care standards.
Public engagement with horse welfare is encouraged through initiatives like National Racehorse Week, held this year from August 22nd to 31st. During this period, 65,000 free visits to studs, training yards, and aftercare centres are offered to educate and shift perceptions. Over 80% of visitors report a positive change in their views on horse welfare after these experiences.
With 5 million attendees in 2025, horse racing remains the UK’s second most popular sport by attendance, trailing only football. The tragic loss of Hansard is a solemn reminder of the sport’s risks and the ongoing commitment to the welfare and safety of all racehorses.