National cancellation to cost racing industry ‘millions’

PA Sport Reporters
March 16, 2020 10:30 pm

‘Devastating blow’ for the sport as Aintree spectacular lost.

Bookmakers have described the cancellation of the Grand National due to the coronavirus outbreak as a “devastating blow” and one that will cost the racing industry millions.

It was announced by Jockey Club Racecourses on Monday evening that the biggest betting race of the year – which would have featured Tiger Roll going for a hat-trick of wins – will not take place at Aintree next month.

Unibet’s Brett Williams said: “The cancellation of the Grand National meeting is a devastating loss for everyone and will cost the racing industry millions at a time when we are already feeling the strain of a completely decimated sporting calendar, but it goes without saying the treatment and care of those suffering, or potential sufferers, of the coronavirus is paramount and Unibet fully support the decision made by racing’s governing bodies.

“This is an unprecedented situation we are all facing and it is extremely important the whole industry pulls together and adheres to the guidelines and reacts accordingly to all advice issued by the Government.

“All bets on the Randox Health Grand National have been voided.”

Simon Clare, PR director for Ladbrokes Coral, said: “The Grand National is the biggest betting horse race of the year, so its cancellation is clearly a blow to the sport, to betting operators and to racing fans.

“However, the wider public health situation that we are all facing is so serious and unprecedented that tough decisions are having to be made for all the right reasons, and this is clearly one of them.”

Mark Pearson of Betfred said: “It’s a huge blow to the industry as a whole, but we support the decision of the Jockey Club in these challenging times.”