The Jockey Club agrees to 20‑year partnership with Levy to boost British racing

The Jockey Club has agreed an exclusive new 20‑year partnership with Levy, the sports and entertainment division of Compass Group UK & Ireland, in a deal that will unlock a £100 million capital investment programme across British racing.

Funded by a payment from Compass, the investment aims to transform the spectator experience at The Jockey Club’s UK racecourses, with major upgrades planned at Epsom Downs, Cheltenham and Aintree.

At Epsom, the main entrance will be significantly revamped alongside a full refurbishment of the Queen Elizabeth II Stand and improvements to the Duchess Stand. Cheltenham will see a major redevelopment of the weighing room, including new facilities for participants and rooftop hospitality, while Aintree will benefit from enhanced owners’ and trainers’ facilities and additional racegoer spaces during the Randox Grand National Festival.

Jim Mullen, Group Chief Executive of The Jockey Club, said the deal marked “an important moment for racing”, adding: “We have agreed a long‑term opportunity with a proven worldwide operator to help us improve our customer experience and grow our ability to invest in the sport.”

Mullen said priority would be given to digital ticketing and investment in flagship festival venues to “improve the experience of the customer and drive returns”.

Levy CEO Jon Davies described the agreement as “a defining moment for British racing” and “a statement of intent” to set a new global standard for the raceday experience.