The British Horseracing Development Programme opened its 2026 applications this week. For the first time in 36 years, it’s partnering with the 10,000 Black Interns Programme.
Careersinracing runs the scheme. It targets graduates and people with similar skills who want racing careers. The 10,000 Interns Foundation is a non-profit that helps Black people in Britain find work opportunities.
This marks the programme’s first diversity-focused partnership. Zoe Elliott heads up careers marketing and recruitment for Careersinracing.
Why Racing Needs Fresh Talent Pipelines
The industry wants more diverse candidates. Simple as that.
Racing’s recruitment has worked the same way for decades. But the sport knows it needs to cast a wider net. The 10,000 Interns partnership directly addresses this gap.
Elliott said the programme “has continually evolved” since its start. She called the foundation “a perfect additional partner” for finding outstanding potential across different communities.
The timing matters too. Racing just secured an exemption from proposed gambling tax increases that’ll hit other sectors. With that financial stability, investing in diverse talent makes sense.
What Participants Actually Get
The programme starts with two weeks at the British Racing School in Newmarket. Participants get industry presentations and visit key sites. That includes Tattersalls, Newmarket Racecourses, and established training yards.
Then comes the real work. Placements last at least eight weeks with racing employers. Options include racecourses, administrative bodies, media companies, and the British Horseracing Authority.
The 10,000 Interns Foundation will connect candidates with placements that match their interests. That’s different from the traditional approach of just slotting people into available positions.
Past participants have done well. Alumni include Horserace Betting Levy Board CEO Alan Delmonte, ITV Racing presenter Ed Chamberlin, and Jockey Club Regional Head of Racing Sulekha Varma.
How This Fits Racing’s Bigger Picture
The partnership comes as racing tackles multiple fronts. Last month, the British Horseracing Authority launched a five-year environmental strategy. It covers emissions, water use, waste, and biodiversity. The Racing Foundation backs it.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed horseracing’s tax exemption earlier this month. Other gaming sectors will pay reforms expected to raise £1 billion. Racing dodged that bullet.
Elliott noted the programme’s 35th anniversary celebrations highlighted its lasting impact. She said the consistent theme was how it kept changing with the times.
The sport clearly sees recruitment as part of its sustainability work. Getting diverse talent through the door now means stronger leadership later. And with tax pressures eased, there’s breathing room to invest in people properly.
Applications for 2026 are open now.
