Grand National meeting cancelled due to coronavirus outbreak
‘Public health must come first’, say officials.
The 2020 Randox Health Grand National at Aintree has been cancelled and will not take place on April 4 because of the coronavirus pandemic, it has been announced by Jockey Club Racecourses. Renowned as the world’s greatest steeplchase and the biggest betting event on the racing calendar, this year’s race – the culmination of three days of racing on Merseyside – had been due to see Tiger Roll bid to join Red Rum as the only three-timer winner. A statement from JCR read: “Following the Government’s new public health guidance regarding avoiding social contact and stopping non-essential travel, and its statement that emergency services are withdrawn from supporting mass gatherings from tomorrow, the Jockey Club has decided that it is no longer appropriate to stage the event. “Jockey Club Racecourses, which runs Aintree and several of the UK’s leading racecourses, had been assessing the feasibility of running the world’s most famous steeplechase behind closed doors with minimal staff on site, but the latest Government information on the measures needed to contain the virus have led it to believe this is no longer a viable consideration. Senior Jockey Club steward Sandy Dudgeon said: “The Randox Health Grand National Festival was just three weeks away, and it’s very clear to us it will not be possible for the event to take place. Public health must come first. “We were working on a plan to stage the Grand National behind closed doors, given its importance to the racing industry and beyond – but following the new Government measures confirmed this evening to help to tackle the coronavirus outbreak, this is not a viable option.“I know this is hugely disappointing news for the many people who work in our sport and the many millions who were looking forward to this year’s event, but very sadly these are exceptional times and this is the responsible thing to do.”
Follow us on Twitter racing365dotcom and like our Facebook page.
Latest
-
Ramatuelle ruled out of Breeders’ Cup Mile bid
French ace scratched from Del Mar contest following veterinary advice.
-
Horse Racing
Yahagi has every faith Forever Young is ready for Classic battle
‘Perfect preparation’ for Kentucky Derby third heading into City Of Troy clash.
-
Exciting times as Brighterdaysahead starts off at Down Royal
‘One step at a time’ for Grade One-winning mare, who was expected to go chasing this season.
-
Joseph O’Brien expecting Classic show from ‘right type’ Troy
But Kieren Fallon sounding note of caution ahead of Del Mar blockbuster.
-
Grand Sefton not on the agenda for Minella Drama
Donald McCain happy to wait for other targets with Old Roan winner.
-
Eydon back on familiar ground at Newmarket this weekend
High-class five-year-old was fourth in the 2000 Guineas two years ago.
-
Charlie Appleby launching dual assault on Juvenile Turf
Aomori City and Al Qudra chasing Breeders’ Cup gold at Del Mar.
-
Wathnan juveniles all set for Breeders’ Cup battle
And Mick Appleby hunting race repeat, this time with Big Mojo.
-
‘It will be great if he could win’ – Bin Suroor rooting for City Of Troy
Godolphin trainer knows what it is like to come close to Breeders’ Cup Classic glory.
-
Hobson ‘can’t wait’ to unleash Fugitif at Cheltenham
Paddy Power Gold Cup again the aim for Prestbury Park fan.