Decline in Irish Entries, Runners, Field Sizes and Attendances in 2023

Horse Racing Ireland has released its full-year data for last year, revealing healthy increases in on-course betting, commercial sponsorship, and bloodstock sales at public auction. However, some key figures saw decreases, such as total entries, total runners, and average field sizes. The number of new owners introduced to the sport fell in 2023, as did the total number of owners. Reported attendances also saw a marginal decrease.

On the positive side, public auction bloodstock sales and on-course betting, including Tote, recorded notable increases. Total prize-money also saw a 2.1 percent increase. Irish-trained horses won significantly more prize-money in Britain and other jurisdictions. Commercial sponsorship, particularly EBF sponsorship, also experienced growth.

Despite the challenges and the cost of living crisis, the Irish racing and breeding industry is depicted as remaining in a strong position.