Most will recognise the impact that Climate Change is having on their everyday lives but how is Climate Change impacting on the horse racing industry, notably in the preparation of European racing surfaces? It is clear that times are changing, and racecourse officials and trainers are having to adapt. 

Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, CEO of the Hong Kong Jockey Club, John Messara, owner breeder of Arrowfield Stud and a major figure in Australian racing, French-based Group 1 winning trainer Nicolas Clement, Italian Valfredo Valiani, a former trainer turned bloodstock agent; and Damon Thayer, former Kentucky state senator and racing industry consultant, offer candid assessments of issues affecting the sport of racing. While each individual speaks from their own standpoint, the views provide food for thought for the industry on a global level. 

Artificial intelligence is steadily finding its place within the horse racing world, with its ability to process vast datasets and identify patterns invisible to the human eye. Could these same technologies extend into one of the sport's most nuanced and debated areas: handicap ratings?

ISSUE 90 – JULY-SEPTEMER 2025