Entain Australia has made the tough call to disband its Ladbrokes Racing Club (LRC) program, a move that marks the end of an initiative that brought racing fans closer to the action across thoroughbred, harness, and greyhound racing.
Entain, owner of two of the top Australian bookmakers, Neds and Ladbrokes, launched the club in 2023.
The Ladbrokes Racing Club quickly gained traction, offering members an ownership-like experience.
However, despite its success, Entain Australia CEO Dean Shannon cited a range of factors behind the decision to discontinue the club in its current form.
“We are proud of Ladbrokes Racing Club and the opportunity it has presented to thousands of customers to experience a race day as an owner,” Shannon said.
“Unfortunately, the Club is not immune to the rising cost of operating pressures currently affecting the wagering sector.
The increasing product fees and taxes in Australia, along with the rising cost of racing, has forced tough decisions to be made regarding these extra initiatives.”
While the club will no longer operate on the racetrack, Shannon reaffirmed Entain’s commitment to racing, promising new initiatives in 2025.
“The Ladbrokes Racing Club was established to bring passionate, like-minded fans closer to the action by creating a community for them to interact – something we are excited to continue this year.”
The decision comes at a critical time for the wagering industry, with operators awaiting the Federal Government’s response to the online gambling enquiry.
Meanwhile, discussions with the AFL over increased product fees and an ongoing AUSTRAC investigation into potential anti-money laundering breaches add further pressure to the sector.
In the coming months, LRC representatives will oversee the transition of its racing stock, with a focus on animal welfare.
Some horses are expected to be transferred to New Zealand, while others will be listed for sale via Inglis Digital.
Entain’s strong relationships with leading studs, including Newgate Farm, add another layer of complexity to the process.
Despite winding down LRC in Australia, Entain remains a major backer of the local racing industry, committing tens of millions of dollars in sponsorships across all three racing codes.
Shannon also confirmed that operations in New Zealand would remain unaffected.
“The TAB Racing Club in New Zealand will remain unaffected and continue to be active on the track.”
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