Finland to Integrate Horseracing into Newly Regulated Market

Finland has unveiled plans to bring horseracing under the umbrella of its upcoming competitive gambling market, scheduled to launch on 1 January 2026. This move marks another step in Finland’s ongoing efforts to shift from a monopolised gambling framework, currently dominated by Veikkaus, to a demonopolised and fully regulated market. The government’s new regulatory framework aims to create a fairer and more responsible gambling landscape in Finland, offering a clear path for both sports betting and online casino operators to secure licences while maintaining the state’s control over lotteries and land-based casinos.

Finland Adds Horseracing to Competitive Gambling Market Ahead of 2026 Launch

In a bid to promote fairness and transparency, the Finnish Government has announced that horseracing will transition to a licensed market as part of the nation’s regulatory overhaul set for 2026. By allowing competitive licensing in horseracing, sports betting, and online casino, the government aims to attract new operators while promoting responsible gambling. The details of this policy shift also specify targeted state funding to support the development and regulation of the horseracing industry.

Key Points:

• Finland will integrate horseracing into a new, competitive gambling market, moving away from a monopoly structure.
• Veikkaus will retain its monopoly over lotteries, betting games, and land-based casinos.
• New funding from the state will go towards horse breeding initiatives, industry consultancy, and anti-doping measures.

Under the new framework, Hippos ry, Finland’s primary organization for horse breeding, will receive government funding to support horseracing and oversee anti-doping programs. These initiatives highlight the government’s commitment to promoting ethical practices and transparency in horseracing, ensuring that new entrants can compete fairly while prioritizing responsible gaming.

Policy and Funding Reforms to Support Horseracing

Funding for the horseracing industry will no longer rely on revenues from monopoly operations. Instead, the state budget will directly support activities related to horse breeding and regulatory oversight. Hippos ry will receive funding to foster the development of horseracing while implementing anti-doping protocols.

In this updated landscape, a competitive licensing system will permit operators to apply for sports betting and online casino licences, opening the door for international brands to enter the Finnish market. This change aims to increase channelisation—the process of directing players to licensed platforms that meet Finland’s regulatory standards. Veikkaus will continue to operate lotteries and land-based casinos under the monopoly model, but competitive sectors will see a regulated, open market.

A Step Toward Responsible and Regulated Gambling

By reducing the monopoly’s control, the government hopes to minimize gambling-related harms and support responsible gaming measures. This regulatory shift follows months of consultation with industry stakeholders and advocacy groups, such as the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA), which welcomed Finland’s move toward a licensing system in October 2023. The new framework is expected to improve transparency, enhance player protections, and promote competition within the market.

Good to know: In a related move, Kela (the Finnish social insurance institution) recently announced plans to evaluate net winnings and gambling’s impact on social assistance. This review aligns with Finland’s broader push to regulate the gambling industry comprehensively.

Timeline and Next Steps

Finland’s government has prepared a draft of the new gambling legislation, which will be sent to the EU Commission for review before being presented to parliament in spring 2025. This process reflects Finland’s commitment to aligning its regulatory approach with EU standards, ensuring a transparent, fully regulated market by the beginning of 2026.

As the timeline advances, Finland will finalize licensing requirements, set up oversight mechanisms, and establish a framework to monitor responsible gambling practices. Industry stakeholders can expect further updates as the regulatory framework takes shape, providing clarity on operational standards and compliance requirements.

The integration of horseracing into Finland’s competitive gambling market marks a significant shift in the country’s regulatory approach. With new licensing opportunities, state-supported industry initiatives, and a clear focus on responsible gambling, Finland is laying the foundation for a modern, balanced gambling environment. As Finland moves toward a 2026 launch, this comprehensive regulatory overhaul could set an example for other markets in Europe looking to balance competitive access with player protections.