Betfair continues to align itself as a patron of horse racing
Thursday 12th August 2004
Following the news that Betfair has pulled out of a seven figure sponsorship deal with satellite channel, Racing UK, comes the revelation that the world’s biggest betting exchange has pledged £400,000 to sponsor the St Leger at Doncaster. It’s a good move for Betfair who, faced with hostility from the BHB and traditional bookmakers is eager to make friends within in the horseracing community and present itself as a patron to the sport. And It seems to be working. John Sanderson, Doncaster's chief executive, said today:
'We are delighted to welcome the world's largest betting exchange as sponsors of the 2004 St Leger and May Hill Stakes. The company has revolutionised modern-day betting, and we are thrilled they have recognised the importance of the world's oldest Classic by choosing it for their highest-profile racing sponsorship to date.'
The St Leger is the World’s oldest classic horse race, first run in 1776, and the sponsorship deal will no doubt take Betfair a step closer to becoming part of the horse racing establishment.
