In addition to her love of horses, Queen Elizabeth II also had a well-documented interest in betting, particularly on the outcome of horse races. While members of the royal family are traditionally discouraged from betting, she never shied away from placing the occasional bet, often in a discreet and unassuming manner. Whether attending race meetings at prestigious venues - such as Ascot, Epsom or Newmarket - or watching from the comfort of Buckingham Palace, the Queen's presence was a familiar sight in the world of horse racing, where she enjoyed the thrill of competition and the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts. 

Queen Elizabeth II’s Approach to Betting and Her Ongoing Influence on the Sport

Despite her status as one of the most recognisable figures in the world, Queen Elizabeth II's approach to betting was refreshingly down-to-earth, reflecting her love of the sport and her appreciation for its inherent uncertainties. While she may not have always backed the winning horse, she often did - Queen Elizabeth II’s passion for horse racing transcended the financial side of things, embodying the spirit of sportsmanship and the camaraderie of the sport.

Queen Elizabeth II's influence on the world of horse racing extended beyond the racetrack, with her success as a breeder and owner earning her widespread admiration and respect within the industry. As of 2013, the Queen's horses have triumphed in more than 1,600 races, including all five British Classic Races, cementing her status as a formidable force on the turf. 

Operating a small-scale breeding operation with 25-30 horses, primarily housed at the Sandringham stables in rural Norfolk, England, the Queen's dedication to the sport remained unwavering, even in her later years. Despite her royal duties, she still found time to indulge in her passion for riding, underscoring her lifelong love affair with horses. From her beloved thoroughbreds like Estimate and Carlton House to her historic victories in prestigious races, her impact on the sport undeniably cemented her legacy as one of its most enduring and beloved figures. 

Our Favourite Punter: Queen Elizabeth II’s Big Betting Wins

Queen Elizabeth II's involvement in horse racing extends beyond her role as an esteemed owner and breeder; she also enjoyed the occasional flutter on the races. While her betting habits are typically kept private, there have been instances where her wagers have made headlines. Rightly so, as they win, everyone will want to know about. For example, in 2008, it was reported that she won £50,000 after her horse, Free Agent, emerged victorious at the races. 

According to data, Queen Elizabeth II had an impressive track record when it came to betting on horse racing. Over the decades, she cultivated a stable of winning thoroughbreds that have brought her joy and substantial financial gains. In 2016 alone, she raked in £558,000, followed by £414,000 in 2017, with her total prize winnings over 30 years amounting to an impressive £6.7 million. She didn’t simply place a small bet here or there and hoped for the best; she took risks. This lucrative hobby saw Queen Elizabeth II maintain an impressive win rate of 15 yearly races since 1988, with her exceptional performance ranking her 11th in the Owners' Championship for "flat" racing in 2017.

Queen Elizabeth II's career in horse racing boasts numerous accolades, including victories in nearly every classic race, with the exception of the Epsom Derby, despite her ten attempts. Her remarkable sports achievements were further underscored when she was named the British Flat Racing Champion Owner in 1954 and 1957, marking her as the first reigning monarch to achieve this honour twice. 

The Queen's influence in the equestrian world extends beyond the borders of the United Kingdom, with her horses achieving success in international races as well. In 1974, her horse Highclere secured victory in the prestigious Prix de Diane in France, adding another feather to Her Majesty's cap. These wins add a touch of excitement to the Queen's long-standing passion for horse racing and showcase her keen understanding of the sport and betting intricacies. Despite her regal stature, Queen Elizabeth II's occasional betting successes served as a reminder of her down-to-earth nature and her genuine enjoyment of all things equestrian. 

At Go Gambling, we are just as passionate about sports betting as Queen Elizabeth II was, and we are here to help you find the hottest UK deals as well as help you enjoy the online world of betting responsibility. With our insight and expertise, we can assist you on your journey to navigate the best online casinos and do it in a safe and enjoyable manner.