A public discussion held at the Pori racetrack on Tuesday night revealed deep concerns among the local community regarding the future of horse racing activities in the area. The event was marked by a surprising turnout, as the 75 seats available in the racetrack café proved insufficient to accommodate the interested participants. Jukka Hurrila, chairman of Pori Ravit Ltd., noted the community's significant concern, emphasizing that the horse industry is a critical source of employment in Satakunta, underscoring the local economic impact.

Throughout the 2020s, the horse racing industry in Pori has faced substantial challenges, primarily due to severe budget cuts affecting state support. The funding for racing operations has been drastically reduced, leading to a decrease in the number of racing days each year. In 2023, only 13 racing events are scheduled to be held in Pori, which represents a significant decline. The most recent blow to the racetrack's operations was the reduction of operational support from 200,000 euros to just 140,000 euros this year, raising alarm about the sustainability of horse racing in the region.

In Satakunta, there has been confusion and frustration regarding why Pori is experiencing such harsh budget cuts compared to other areas. Participants in the Tuesday event sought explanations from decision-makers about the rationale behind these drastic measures. As the community rallies to support the horse racing scene, there are calls for better understanding and potential restoration of funding to ensure the viability of this important local cultural and economic activity.