Changes To UK NH Programme Announced By BHA

[Wandering Eyes]

A number of changes to the upcoming 2025/2026 National Hunt programme, including a minimum rating requirement for Grade 1 novice and juvenile hurdles, were announced by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) on Thursday.

Horses will only be allowed to run in the top-level contests should they have achieved a rating of 110 or higher, either through a published handicap mark or as assessed by the BHA handicapper to have to raced to that level in at least one hurdle run. There is also an increase in the number of weight-for-age novice chases. As a result, a significant number of class three novice limited handicap chases have been removed and replaced by beginner/novice chases with a minimum value of £12,000 (rising to £15,000 in 2026).

The changes, which come into effect immediately, are part of wider efforts to strengthen British Jump racing by giving horses more opportunities to gain valuable early jumping experience and hone their technique over obstacles. The changes can be viewed in full here.

Tom Byrne, BHA head of racing and betting, said, “There's a recognition across our industry about the importance of growing the number of horses – and particularly high-quality horses – that are bred, owned, trained and raced in Britain.

“Central to this is ensuring that developmental pathways exist so that we are nurturing future talent and, over the longer-term, making sure we are competitive at the top level.

“The changes being introduced for the jumps season are primarily geared towards improving the quality of racing for our participants and customers, and giving our promising younger horses the right opportunities to help them fulfil their potential over hurdles and fences.

“Like the measures introduced as part of the 2026 fixture list, such as the point-to-point bonus series and additional investment in the Elite Mares' Scheme, these improvements may take time and require patience before we start to see the true benefits. For instance, the changes to weight-for-age novice chases may well result in some smaller field sizes for these contests in the short-term.

“But we firmly believe that whether it's refining the novice chase division, requiring our top novice and juvenile hurdlers to show a level of form before competing in Grade 1 contests, or bolstering competition and returns for connections in the North, these are positive steps that can help support the long-term future of British jumps racing.”

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