More than 65 parliamentarians have taken part in an annual igaming-linked charity initiative organised by the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), placing bets on this year’s Grand National as part of a campaign tied to the UK’s regulated betting sector.
Participants from across the political spectrum visited local betting shops to place £50 wagers on runners in the race, with early favourites among MPs reported to include Panic Attack and Johnny Who. The initiative forms part of a broader effort within the igaming and betting industry to align major sporting events with charitable fundraising.
John Healey is among those involved, selecting Final Orders, while other MPs have backed a range of horses. Under the scheme, winnings generated from successful bets will be donated to charities chosen by each participant. In cases where selections do not win, BGC members have committed to making a £250 donation instead, ensuring contributions are made regardless of race outcomes.
According to the BGC, the campaign has recorded its highest level of parliamentary participation to date, reflecting continued engagement between policymakers and the regulated igaming and betting sector. The initiative has become a recurring feature ahead of the Grand National, generating charitable contributions annually, including more than £15,000 raised in the previous year.
The race is scheduled to take place at Aintree Racecourse, and is expected to attract significant national attention, with millions of viewers anticipated to follow proceedings. The Grand National remains a key event within both the sporting and igaming calendars, driving engagement across betting platforms and retail environments.
Industry stakeholders continue to highlight the role of retail betting in supporting employment and local economies, while operating within regulatory frameworks that include consumer protection measures. As one of the UK’s most widely recognised sporting events, the Grand National is expected to once again generate substantial participation from both racing audiences and igaming consumers.
Secretary of State for Defence John Healey MP said: “I’m proud to be backing a brilliant local charity, Rawmarsh Foodbank, through this year’s Grand National charity bet.
“Supporting a local cause is very important to me, and I wish all those having a bet the best of luck and hope the charities MPs have backed win big too.”
Shadow Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Nigel Huddleston MP said: “Britain should be proud of its world-leading betting industry, supporting jobs, the economy and major sporting events like the Grand National.
“I’m pleased to be taking part in this year’s charity bet campaign, cheering on I Am Maximus while supporting a great cause.
“But it’s vital we don’t lose sight of what makes that system work. Financial Risk Assessments should only proceed if they are genuinely frictionless, and there are clear concerns that the current pilot is not delivering that.
“If the regulated market is squeezed too hard, whether through excessive checks or tax, it will drive people towards the unregulated market.
“That’s why it’s so important the Gambling Commission listens to the evidence and gets this right.”
Betting and Gaming Council CEO Grainne Hurst added: “The Grand National is a uniquely British event that brings friends, family and the country together.
“It shows the enduring appeal of having a flutter, a pastime enjoyed responsibly by millions of people every year through the regulated sector, and it’s vital that this much-loved tradition is protected.
“Our members are proud to support MPs and raise funds for charities across the country, helping good causes benefit from this world-famous race.
“It’s important we continue to get the regulatory balance right, so people can enjoy occasions like the Grand National safely, while supporting jobs, the economy and vital charitable work.”
