Published by Citywealth, 23 September 2026 – on AI in horse racing, record bloodstock prices and international wealth
Artificial intelligence is changing the horse business. AI in horse racing now helps trainers shortlist yearlings from thousands of pedigrees. It flags subtle changes in a horse’s movement before an injury becomes visible. And it supports racegoers when they place their bets.
The Citywealth article “AI, Billionaires and the Booming Business of Horses” by Karen Jones follows this trend from Keeneland to Zurich. It draws on the analysis of Dr Ariel Sergio Davidoff, founding partner of Davidoff Law in Zurich. His views also featured in Citywealth’s earlier report on the business of horses.
An Overbought Bloodstock Market?
Dr Davidoff sees a clear parallel between bloodstock and financial markets. Keeneland’s September Yearling Sale 2025 became the highest-grossing Thoroughbred auction in history. It generated more than USD 531 million, and 56 yearlings sold for a million dollars or more. In stock market terms, he says, this could point to an “overbought market”.
The momentum has continued in 2026. Kentucky again produced a series of seven-figure yearlings, and Tattersalls reported record prices.
How AI in Horse Racing Changes Valuation and Welfare
New tools make his stock market comparison increasingly literal. Computer vision and machine learning analyse biomechanics, pedigrees, sales data and valuations across thousands of horses. In theory, they can spot yearlings that look undervalued.
Yet Dr Davidoff stresses that “a yearling is not a share certificate”. Temperament, health and training remain uncertain. And every model is only as good as its data.
Biometric systems may matter even more. They detect early warning signs of injury and help trainers and vets decide whether a horse should race at all.
Betting, Regulation and the Courts
Dr Davidoff also sees AI arriving in betting. At races in Zurich, many VIP guests now use AI tools for their wagers, sometimes with success. His verdict stays sceptical: “Nevertheless, I suspect, the house always wins.”
In the UK, regulators are tightening affordability checks. Dr Davidoff calls this “something of a regulatory race of its own” between bookmakers, bettors, algorithms and regulators.
Not every development is digital. In Naples, a court has sent eight owners, trainers and drivers to trial over alleged doping at the Agnano racecourse. The allegations remain unproven. Dr Davidoff notes that some participants apparently still prefer “old-fashioned chemistry”. As he puts it: “AI may be getting better. Human ingenuity, unfortunately, remains competitive.”
What AI in Horse Racing Means for Buyers and Investors
Higher prices mean higher stakes. Buyers now pay seven-figure sums for untested yearlings. Due diligence on ownership, agents, commissions and contracts is therefore essential. Families and investors often need advice in several jurisdictions at once.
Davidoff Law advises clients on the legal and commercial aspects of acquiring, owning and trading horses. Further insights are available in How to Buy a Horse: Legal and Investment Considerations and Buying and Selling Horses Across Borders.
Read the full Citywealth article here: AI, Billionaires and the Booming Business of Horses
