Horse racing in Ireland and Britain are inextricably linked. Horses, jockeys and trainers operate between the two countries on a daily basis. But the uncertainties of Brexit have stoked fear in the Irish racing industry.
As eyes turn to this week's Punchestown Festival, here are some stats and facts to highlight the industry's importance and the challenges it faces with Brexit.
Horse Racing Ireland says the industry supports 14,000 full-time jobs, mainly in rural communities. Labour intensive and rurally based, it is also big business.
The industry contributes over €1 billion in economic output to our economy every year and its 26 racecourses generate over 80,000 tourist visits to Ireland annually. But there are concerns within "the sport of kings" that Britain's withdrawal from the EU could impact on the industry.
Much of the debate around Brexit has focused on the free movement of people between the UK and the EU. But there are concerns in the equine industry about the free movement of horses.
Read Conor McMorrow's full blog: Unease in Irish racing industry over Brexit hurdle
