British bookmakers are turning a high-stakes event into a force for good: this year’s Britannia Stakes, scheduled for Thursday, June 19 during Royal Ascot, will see all profits donated to UK charities. Now in its sixth year, the program has already raised over £6 million since its launch in 2019.
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The Britannia Stakes, a one-mile handicap race for three-year-old colts and geldings, takes place on the third day of Royal Ascot, the popular racing festival running June 17–21 at Ascot Racecourse. With a winner’s purse of around £61,848, this race draws big attention—and big betting volume.
Major betting operators including Flutter (Paddy Power, Betfair, Sky Bet), Entain (Ladbrokes, Coral), William Hill, Unibet, Betway, and Virgin Bet are all participating. Even if the race doesn’t yield profits, they’ve pledged a minimum donation of £200,000 to ensure tangible support for beneficiaries.
This year, proceeds will benefit Prostate Cancer UK, Missing People, SAS Regimental Association, Racing to School, Greenhouse Sports, and TempusNovo—covering causes from health and education to veterans’ support.
With growing attention on ensuring responsible gambling, the Britannia Stakes charity initiative aligns the industry with a public purpose—turning bets into meaningful contributions. Royal Ascot organizers and Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) leaders describe it as a “best-in-class example” of how large sporting events can drive community impact. As the racing world gears up for June 19, bettors, fans, and charities will all share in the win-win: thrilling horse racing and a strong boost to social good.
