Japan Racing Association adopts first-ever customer-harassment policy

The Japan Racing Association (JRA) has adopted a customer-harassment policy allowing it to refuse further service and refer malicious cases to police.

The JRA published its policy this week, covering interactions with racegoers and a wider group of people involved in racing.

“As customer harassment gains recognition as a social problem, we have, regrettably, confirmed demands and conduct from some customers and others that are highly likely to constitute customer harassment; in light of this, we have decided to establish this policy,” the JRA said.

The policy applies to business partners and facility users as well as customers. Local communities and media are covered, alongside racing stakeholders including owners, jockeys, stables and breeders.

Examples include grabbing, punching, kicking or throwing objects, as well as sexual harassment and stalking. Insults and discriminatory remarks, including abuse concerning sexual orientation or gender identity, also fall within the policy.

The JRA lists threats to expose staff through media or social media, and threats implying connections with anti-social forces. Photographing or recording staff without permission and attempts to obtain personal information during telephone calls are also covered.

The JRA said it would seek reasonable discussions to resolve problems, but could decline further service when it judged conduct to be harassment. In malicious cases, it could work with police and external experts such as lawyers.

“At the same time, to provide high-quality services and continue to hold horse racing safely and smoothly, we believe it is important to protect the personality and dignity of our employees and staff, and create an environment in which they can work with peace of mind,” the JRA said.

The announcement coincides with new Japanese requirements making customer-harassment prevention an employer duty from October 1. The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare published prevention guidelines on February 26, 2026.