INTRODUCING the session titled ‘Challenges Facing the European Breeding and Racing Industry’, Brian Kavanagh outlined some salient facts about the industry, spoke about strategic priorities for Irish racing and highlighted some of the issues that will have to be faced following Brexit.

In 2015 Europe accounted for 23% of all foals born worldwide, 21% of all races run, 16% of the prize money on offer and 30% of betting on racing across the globe. The betting figure pales against the almost 60% of global betting generated in Asia.