In 2017, Lakhdar Terbèche was already in charge during the demonstration against the experimentation of “live betting” on races in the Française des jeux points of sale. Seven years later, the man nicknamed “Dany” is once again the face of the revolt of an entire industry against the government concerning taxation on horse racing betting. With his impressive figure, the 76-year-old owner and breeder managed to bring together the majority of professionals to fight against an amendment to the Social Security budget which endangers an entire ecosystem.
Why this mobilization?
LAKHDAR TERBECHE. We demonstrate to defend the interests of the sector, to protect our countryside. This taxation was estimated at 35 million euros by some, at 50 million euros by others. Ultimately, we don’t really know what is behind these announcements. One thing is certain, if the government opens a breach, it will come back to it every time and this will put jobs linked to the horse racing activity at risk.
However, the Minister of the Budget gave guarantees…
This is progress, but we must remain attentive. I fear being used to demobilize the troops. You must not fall into the trap. We remain in a tough position. It is not a euro that must be released through the sector. The collective is united on this subject. At the same time, there is a lot of lobbying work being done. Personalities like me with a big mouth and those who do a painstaking job are united on this subject.
Unprecedented, no race will be held on Thursday, November 7. How is this possible?
A committee of around twenty people bringing together leaders of the associations, parent companies (France Galop and Le Trotteur Français), and representatives of the unions, was created. Dialogue is constant and unity is present. This is the first time I’ve seen this. The regional federations provided buses so that the demonstrators could go to the Capital.
What will be the route of the event?
The gathering will take place at Place Denfert-Rochereau (14th century) for departure at 1:30 p.m. Due to the Vigipirate plan, the route has been modified. We will take small streets, which is not ideal, to finish at Place Vauban at 6 p.m. and no longer near the Chamber of Deputies. According to feedback from the federations, we are expecting at least 5,000 demonstrators. Éric Woerth should be part of the procession. At the end of the event, an official delegation will go to the National Assembly to dialogue with elected officials and raise awareness of our cause.