France puts a hold on horse racing as COVID-19 continues to spread rapidly throughout the Nation.
On the same day that The Jockey Club announced that the Grand National Carnival at Aintree Racecourse, Liverpool would be abandoned, local authorities in France have put a line through horse racing in France as the coronavirus continues to spread.
At least for one month there will be no horse races in France with administration from France Galop and LeTrot and French thoroughbred and harness racing issuing a joint statement today announcing a cease on all forms of racing until at least April 15.
“Our top priority is the health of all stakeholders in the industry and compliance with state directives,” read the joint statement.
“By suspending all competition, we want first and foremost to protect them from the current pandemic.
“With this decision, the French racing industry also shows its solidarity and responsibility towards the entire nation.”
Both codes will liaise with stakeholders to economically ‘safeguard’ professionals working in equine industries.
“We are fully aware of the economic consequences of cancelling the races,” read the statement.
“The moment we are living in is exceptional and of unprecedented gravity.
“We know that we can count on everyone’s commitment to stem the pandemic as quickly as possible; you can also count on our commitment and determination: no one will be abandoned.”
France Galop chief executive Olivier Delloye tweeted shortly after the announcement.
“Only the evolution of the pandemic will tell us when horse racing can resume. Let’s act safely and responsibly to flatten the curve,” Delloye wrote.
With the first Group race of the French flat season held on Sunday at Saint-Cloud, the abandonment in France will disrupt 17 stakes races including seven Listed races, nine Group 3 races and one Group 2 event.
The internationally acclaimed Prix Ganay (2100m) at ParisLongchamp is scheduled to be France’s first Group 1 race of the year on April 26 however industry insiders believe it is at long-odds to be run.
French racing set to return as Paris Police give green light read more.
