Horse racing is one of the oldest sports on the planet, with the earliest recorded traces dating back to the Ancient Greeks and Egyptians in the 12th century. The sport has evolved since its first incarnation, with greater emphasis on equine welfare in the modern era.
But, one factor that has remained common is that popularity has remained high. This is never more evident than in the opening leg of the U.S. Triple Crown, which constantly sees newcomers brought into the sport learning how to bet on horse races.
The popularity of the Kentucky Derby is only growing annually, with a record-breaking number of viewers tuning in to see Sovereignty’s success in the race at Churchill Downs in 2025. One key difference between past and current racing is the training methods used.
But, what technological advancements have had a direct impact on the sport?
Artificial Intelligence
One of the most transformative technologies adopted in the modern era is Artificial Intelligence. This technology is now used across a wide range of sectors, and it has proven useful for high-ranking figures in racing.
Among those are trainers, who can use AI to analyse patterns in stride data and assess potential routes to end goals. AI is also readily used by fans of the sport, especially among bettors.
The tech can fine-tune the research process by consuming vast amounts of data, including information on the types of horses involved, ground conditions, and potential improvers.
Wearables
Data is hugely important for trainers, as it is the metric that shows whether a runner is in form or underperforming. Previously, trainers had to rely on their own eyes and trust workout riders to provide informative feedback.
However, wearables take a lot of the risk of chance away from running a horse. GPS trackers and heart rate monitors are common in stables worldwide, capturing key metrics that directly affect a horse’s performance on the track.
This technology captures speed data and the energy a runner exerts. Key data like this is highly important for a trainer, as it enables them to detect potential issues such as fatigue or lameness.
It enables trainers to proactively manage their runners’ training programs and diets to suit the horse’s needs. Wearables can also detect underlying health conditions that may not be visible to the naked eye, which is highly beneficial for improving equine welfare.
Training Simulators
In addition to improving trainer services, technological advancements have had a profound impact on rider education.
Jockeys will still be required to go through the grades to reach the top level, but training simulators can now be used to educate riders about riding styles and tactical moves.
Simulators have had a profound impact on the number of young riders who have gone on to excel on the global stage, allowing inexperienced jockeys to make common mistakes in a controlled environment rather than on the track, which could damage their long-term success in the sport. An example of this can be found in the success enjoyed by young jockey Billy Loughnane, who claimed Grade One success aboard Rebel’s Romance aged 19.
However, it isn’t only aspiring jockeys who will take advantage of simulators. Experienced riders will also use the tech ahead of big races, allowing them to test tactics on their horses and determine the ride required to achieve the best possible finishing position.
Equine Welfare
Injuries on track are no longer always career-threatening in this modern day, with a greater level of therapies and options available to heal racehorses.
This was only evident in early 2026 when a potentially career-threatening injury to Sir Gino at Cheltenham was avoided after diagnosis from vets. A wide variety of advanced therapies are now available in horse racing to ensure equines are able to enjoy lasting lifespans post-racing. Among those include Laser therapy and Platelet-Rich Plasma.
The latter involves injecting horses with stem cells to speed healing of joint and tendon injuries, with the therapy showing signs of ligament repair. Meanwhile, leading platforms such as TeleVet ensure that respected advice and guidance can be provided by remote vets to enable more immediate decisions regarding equine welfare.
Hoof scanning is a valuable digital tool used by farriers that can identify imbalances in horses and help professionals make informed decisions to ensure horses are as comfortable as possible.
Emphasis on Data
At the heart of the future of horse racing is data, with key metrics vital to ensuring technology can be used across key sectors. Trainers rely on data like never before, using the metrics to make informed decisions to avoid overtraining and getting the very best from their runners. Additionally, technology has a proven record of reducing injury risk in the sport, with a broader range of medical options ensuring a life beyond racing for the equine
