The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has confirmed that jump racing in the United Kingdom is suspended until the beginning of July.
However, detailed proposals are being developed for a resumption of flat racing from 1 May, if possible, with meetings held behind closed doors.
The BHA added: “Racing will begin on the flat and behind closed doors to minimise demands on emergency services.”
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Richard Wayman, chief operating officer of the BHA, said in a statement: “The decision to lose jump racing until July was not one which was taken lightly and we are very conscious of the impact this will have on many across our sport.
“We are working closely with the horsemen, racecourses and Levy Board to ensure the sport is ready for a resumption of racing at the earliest possible opportunity. Our planning is progressing well, and it is important that we keep everybody informed as it develops to help them with their own decision-making.
“The plan involves a phased return of racing, as well as increasing the jump programme in late summer and early autumn. With that in mind, we wanted to ensure that those who own or train jumps horses have a clear picture of how we are planning to proceed in the coming months.
“Additionally, we were keen to minimise the risk of any unnecessary expenditure by confirming that there will be no jump racing before 1 July. This will allow horses to have breaks away from training yards if owners wish them to.”
The spread of the coronavirus has seen British racing suspended since 17 March.
Image: Wikimedia Commons
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