Willie Mullins, the Most Successful Trainer in Cheltenham History

We recently had the opportunity to visit Willie Mullins’ yard, gaining a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most successful operations in horse racing.

As a business that regularly supports clients across the equine, agricultural and veterinary sectors, visits like this provide valuable insight into the innovation and continuous improvement taking place throughout the industry.

Widely regarded as the most successful trainer in Cheltenham history, Willie Mullins has set the standard for excellence in the industry through consistency, innovation and attention to detail.

During our visit, we also met Ethical Diamond, one of Willie Mullins’ standout horses, who made headlines in 2025 after winning the Duke of Edinburgh Stakes at Royal Ascot, the Ebor Handicap at York and the prestigious $5 million Longines Breeders’ Cup Turf at Del Mar.

In a moment we did not plan, Willie himself made a surprise appearance in the background of our photo.

Innovation in the Equine Sector

Innovation in horse racing and equine businesses is more common than many realise, particularly in areas such as

• Training and performance optimisation

• Data-driven decision making and monitoring

• Horse welfare and recovery protocols

• Equipment, surfaces and environmental improvements

These activities can often qualify as Research & Development (R&D) for tax purposes.

Unlocking R&D Tax Relief

Having worked with businesses across the equine, farming and veterinary sectors, we regularly see innovative activity taking place that may qualify for R&D tax relief without businesses realising it.

Minerva Innovation Group supports businesses in:

• Identifying qualifying R&D activity

• Preparing robust technical reports

• Maximising eligible tax relief claims

In 2025, we generated average cash benefits of

€5,000 per employee in Ireland

£2,000 per employee in the UK

If you are operating in the equine or wider agricultural sector and investing in improving performance, efficiency or outcomes, there is a strong possibility you are eligible for R&D tax relief.

Book your free consultation with us today