Phase out jump horse racing in the UK

Recent signers:
Elaine Al Meqdad and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

I hate seeing animals suffer on the racetrack, where they are whipped mercilessly during a race, struggling to overcome high jumps that often cost them their lives. The distressing sight of horses collapsing and dying from exhaustion and fatal injuries is unbearable. These majestic animals, known for their grace and strength, are subjected to unnecessary cruelty in the name of sport. It's high time we re-evaluated our priorities and took actions to promote more humane treatment of horses.

Jump horse racing, also known as National Hunt racing, is notorious for its high rate of horse fatalities. Each year, in the UK alone, an average of 200 horses die on racetracks, and a significant proportion of these deaths occur in jump racing due to the perilous nature of the sport. Despite the adrenaline rush it provides to audiences, the cost is too high when lives are unnecessarily lost and animals are forced to endure such brutal conditions. It's in our hands to protect these animals who don't have a voice of their own.

Changing our approach to equine sports is not only ethically imperative but also presents new opportunities for safer and more inclusive equestrian sports. We can pivot towards disciplines such as dressage, show jumping under controlled conditions, and other non-lethal equine sports that emphasize the bond between horse and rider rather than their endurance against deadly obstacles. By endorsing safer alternatives, we are not only safeguarding the lives of countless horses but also preserving the integrity and enjoyment of equestrian sports.

We call upon the UK Parliament to act swiftly and responsibly in phasing out jump horse racing. It is essential for the welfare of our equine companions and to align with modern ethical standards that view animal rights and humane treatment as paramount.

Please sign this petition to urge the UK Parliament to prioritize animal welfare and support the transition to safer equestrian sports. Let us take a stand together for the voiceless horses who deserve a fighting chance at a life without fear or unnecessary hardship. Your signature could be the catalyst for change towards a kinder and more compassionate society.

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Recent signers:
Elaine Al Meqdad and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

I hate seeing animals suffer on the racetrack, where they are whipped mercilessly during a race, struggling to overcome high jumps that often cost them their lives. The distressing sight of horses collapsing and dying from exhaustion and fatal injuries is unbearable. These majestic animals, known for their grace and strength, are subjected to unnecessary cruelty in the name of sport. It's high time we re-evaluated our priorities and took actions to promote more humane treatment of horses.

Jump horse racing, also known as National Hunt racing, is notorious for its high rate of horse fatalities. Each year, in the UK alone, an average of 200 horses die on racetracks, and a significant proportion of these deaths occur in jump racing due to the perilous nature of the sport. Despite the adrenaline rush it provides to audiences, the cost is too high when lives are unnecessarily lost and animals are forced to endure such brutal conditions. It's in our hands to protect these animals who don't have a voice of their own.

Changing our approach to equine sports is not only ethically imperative but also presents new opportunities for safer and more inclusive equestrian sports. We can pivot towards disciplines such as dressage, show jumping under controlled conditions, and other non-lethal equine sports that emphasize the bond between horse and rider rather than their endurance against deadly obstacles. By endorsing safer alternatives, we are not only safeguarding the lives of countless horses but also preserving the integrity and enjoyment of equestrian sports.

We call upon the UK Parliament to act swiftly and responsibly in phasing out jump horse racing. It is essential for the welfare of our equine companions and to align with modern ethical standards that view animal rights and humane treatment as paramount.

Please sign this petition to urge the UK Parliament to prioritize animal welfare and support the transition to safer equestrian sports. Let us take a stand together for the voiceless horses who deserve a fighting chance at a life without fear or unnecessary hardship. Your signature could be the catalyst for change towards a kinder and more compassionate society.

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Petition created on 12 April 2026