The Welsh government has announced plans to ban greyhound racing, making Wales the first nation in the UK to prohibit the sport. Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies stated the ban will be implemented "as soon as practically possible."
The decision follows sustained pressure from animal welfare groups and a public petition that gathered 35,000 signatures. Currently, Wales has only one operational greyhound racing track - the Valley Stadium in Ystrad Mynach.
Animal welfare organizations, including the Dogs Trust and RSPCA, have welcomed the announcement, citing concerns about injuries sustained by racing dogs. According to the Dogs Trust, racing at high speeds around oval tracks frequently results in injuries, sometimes severe enough to require euthanasia.
However, the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB) has criticized the decision, claiming it was driven by "pressure from the extreme animal rights movement" rather than welfare concerns. GBGB Chief Executive Mike Bird expressed disappointment, noting that the Welsh government had not engaged with industry representatives or the regulatory body.
While no specific timeline has been announced, the ban could potentially be enacted before the next Welsh Parliament election in May 2026. The government will establish an implementation group to develop detailed proposals and learn from other countries that have banned the sport, such as New Zealand.
The announcement has raised questions about the future of the Valley Stadium site. Local MS Hefin David has expressed concerns about potential flood risks and land management once racing ceases.
The Welsh government has indicated it will not consider compensation for those affected by the ban but plans to engage with the sector regarding workforce implications and site development.
The move puts pressure on other UK nations to follow suit, though the UK government has previously ruled out banning greyhound racing in England.