Coral-Ladbrokes deal: BHA warns of 'adverse impact'

The proposed merger between Coral and Ladbrokes has been dealt a blow after the BHA told the competition watchdog it would have an adverse impact on both customers and the horseracing and greyhound industries.

BHA chief executive Nick Rust's submission to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), published on Thursday, warned the merger could lead to a "deterioration" in odds and a reduction in the value of media rights that could potentially force the closure of smaller racecourses.

The BHA also suggested that Coral and Ladbrokes should be made to contribute to the levy through their online business in advance of the proposed replacement system due to be introduced next April.