Legal Status of Horse Racing in Various Countries
Horse racing happens worldwide, but not every country has the same approach. Some countries have many rules about racing, while others might have different laws for racing events and betting altogether.
It is usually allowed in countries like the US, Canada, Australia, and much of Europe. However, some countries like France do not allow betting on horse races. You can’t bet on horse races in countries where all gambling is illegal, such as the UAE and Singapore. Interestingly, India only allows betting on horse races since they consider it more about skill than luck.
Horse Racing Regulations and Governing Bodies
The International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA) serves as the primary body governing horse racing on a global scale. Its focus is creating standardized rules to ensure consistency in international racing and achieving the welfare and ethical treatment of racehorses. IFHA also promotes anti-doping measures for drug-free competitions and oversees the prestigious International Pattern Races.
National Level – United Arab Emirates (UAE)
In the UAE, horse racing is mainly controlled by two organizations. The Emirates Racing Authority (ERA) is the top organization that sets rules for horse safety, racing procedures, and licenses. They also work to make horse racing more popular in the UAE and make sure racetracks follow the standards. In addition, a special law, Federal Law No. 7 of 2015, focuses on stopping illegal drug use in horse racing. This law outlines punishments and allows authorities to investigate and stop doping.
Why is Horse Race Betting Illegal in the UAE
The UAE’s ban on horse race betting stems from religious and cultural factors. Islamic law (Sharia) prohibits gambling, viewing it as sinful and potentially harmful. Culturally, the emphasis lies on hard work and achieving success through effort, not chance. The one exception is at the Jebel Ali racecourse, but even there, the bets are technically framed as competitions.
However, if you want to bet on the major Dubai World Cup race, you can do it from outside the UAE or your home using a credible VPN. Most online betting websites will offer options for the Dubai World Cup. Some websites even let you bet on other Dubai World Cup Night races.
Controversies Surrounding Horse Racing
The following controversies highlight the tension between the excitement of horse racing and the ethical dilemmas it raises regarding the treatment and well-being of the animals involved.
High Injury and Fatality Rates
The demanding nature of horse racing exposes horses to a significant risk of injury. Skeletal breakdowns, like fractures, are particularly common due to the immense strain on bones and joints during high-speed racing. These injuries are sometimes very severe and require euthanasia on the racetrack itself. Even less serious injuries can have lasting consequences, ending a horse’s racing career prematurely.
Use of Performance-Enhancing Drugs
The use of drugs to manipulate a horse’s performance or mask underlying pain is a persistent problem in horse racing. These drugs can have serious health consequences for the horses themselves, potentially leading to organ damage, ulcers, or even death. Furthermore, the use of such drugs creates an unfair playing field, undermining the integrity of the sport and diminishing the achievements of horses who win without artificial enhancements.
Whip Use
Proponents argue that it is a necessary tool for jockeys to maintain control and safety at high speeds. Opponents view it as a cruel and unnecessary practice that inflicts pain on horses who are already at their physical limit. The acceptable use of the whip is heavily regulated, but there are ongoing debates about the effectiveness and ethics of this practice.
Final Words About Horse Racing
Horse racing is a complex sport with both thrilling highs and troubling lows. While the excitement is undeniable, the ethical concerns surrounding animal welfare cannot be ignored. The legality of horse racing varies depending on location. Before indulging in this sport, consider the arguments for and against it to make an informed decision.
