Stop the Grand National horse races

This petition is one of 23 petitions in the movement "Animal Welfare in Horse Racing."Learn more about the movement.
Recent signers:
Elaine Al Meqdad and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Horse racing has long been a cherished sport, but behind the glamour and excitement lies a dark side that often goes overlooked. The Grand National, hailed as one of the most prestigious events in the horse racing calendar, tragically highlights this issue. Despite its long-standing tradition, the spectacle is marred by the significant risks it poses to the horses involved.

Every year, horses that participate in the Grand National are subjected to grueling conditions that demand both physical and mental endurance. The extensive race track, combined with challenging obstacles, forces these magnificent creatures to exert themselves beyond their limits, often leading to tragic consequences. Since 2000, the race has claimed the lives of more than 40 horses—an unacceptable statistic that underscores the need for change.

Furthermore, the breeding and training practices associated with preparing horses for such events frequently prioritize performance over wellbeing. This not only results in injuries during the race but also long-term health issues, including chronic pain and psychological stress, for the horses involved.

Animal rights organizations, equestrian experts, and concerned citizens have been increasingly vocal about the urgent need to address the welfare of racehorses. Instead of continuing to justify these events under the guise of tradition, it's time to acknowledge the ethical implications and explore alternative forms of equine sports that prioritize the safety and health of horses.

Moreover, public opinion is shifting. A growing number of people are questioning the morality of continuing such races when the welfare of these animals is at risk. Polls conducted by animal welfare groups highlight that a significant portion of the population supports the ban or significant reform of such high-risk events.

It's imperative that we evolve as a society, respecting and valuing the lives of all creatures. Let us advocate for a future where sports no longer involve animal suffering, but instead celebrate their beauty and capabilities in a way that is safe and humane.

Join us in calling for a halt to the Grand National horse races. Let us send a strong message to the organizers, sponsors, and governing bodies of horse racing that it is time for a change. Sign this petition to demand an end to this outdated and cruel tradition.

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

The Issue

Horse racing has long been a cherished sport, but behind the glamour and excitement lies a dark side that often goes overlooked. The Grand National, hailed as one of the most prestigious events in the horse racing calendar, tragically highlights this issue. Despite its long-standing tradition, the spectacle is marred by the significant risks it poses to the horses involved.

Every year, horses that participate in the Grand National are subjected to grueling conditions that demand both physical and mental endurance. The extensive race track, combined with challenging obstacles, forces these magnificent creatures to exert themselves beyond their limits, often leading to tragic consequences. Since 2000, the race has claimed the lives of more than 40 horses—an unacceptable statistic that underscores the need for change.

Furthermore, the breeding and training practices associated with preparing horses for such events frequently prioritize performance over wellbeing. This not only results in injuries during the race but also long-term health issues, including chronic pain and psychological stress, for the horses involved.

Animal rights organizations, equestrian experts, and concerned citizens have been increasingly vocal about the urgent need to address the welfare of racehorses. Instead of continuing to justify these events under the guise of tradition, it's time to acknowledge the ethical implications and explore alternative forms of equine sports that prioritize the safety and health of horses.

Moreover, public opinion is shifting. A growing number of people are questioning the morality of continuing such races when the welfare of these animals is at risk. Polls conducted by animal welfare groups highlight that a significant portion of the population supports the ban or significant reform of such high-risk events.

It's imperative that we evolve as a society, respecting and valuing the lives of all creatures. Let us advocate for a future where sports no longer involve animal suffering, but instead celebrate their beauty and capabilities in a way that is safe and humane.

Join us in calling for a halt to the Grand National horse races. Let us send a strong message to the organizers, sponsors, and governing bodies of horse racing that it is time for a change. Sign this petition to demand an end to this outdated and cruel tradition.

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Petition created on 11 April 2026