Even though there has been managed decline, it has to be said Kempton has never been a particularly popular track. I always quite liked it but even when I attended about 20 to 25 years ago, the crowds were never that large. Certainly when compared to its near neighbours Ascot, Sandown and even Epsom back in those days.
It will be a sad day when it closes in terms of history but as we head into 2026, I don’t believe racing can realistically hold onto a track which exists for one day a year. Especially in a densely populated area with its housing stock under pressure.
Looking at the bigger picture than Kempton, the common themes are there is too much racing and field sizes are too small. With a decreasing horse population and dwindling betting turnover, does British racing still require something like 60 tracks? No one really likes to see a racecourse close but I doubt Kempton will be the last.