British Prime Minister Borris Johnson announced during a press conference Saturday evening a four-week national shutdown, set to begin Thursday, Nov. 5, as a result of the rising COVID-19 cases in England. While horseracing, and other elite sports will be able to continue behind closed doors, betting shops, which re-opened following the initial lockdown June 15, are scheduled to be among businesses closed later this week.
A release issued by the British Horseracing Authority stated: “The horseracing industry has worked hard to maintain the safety of our participants and the communities in which we live and work. We have done all we can to play our part and will continue to do so under the new restrictions. The Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport, Oliver Dowden has said that elite sport played behind closed doors will be able to continue in this period. Horseracing is included in that category, which is crucial for our industry.”
“The government’s decision, we believe, recognizes the professionalism shown by our people and the vital need to protect their jobs. This is welcome news for the tens of thousands whose livelihoods depend upon our industry. Now, more than ever, we recognize the need to act responsibly and keep racing safely. In the difficult weeks ahead, our sport will do its best to lift the nation’s spirits.”
“We have set out to government in recent weeks the perilous future we face with no spectators permitted at present and betting shops closing. [The] decision does not alter the fact that racing needs urgent financial aid and funding reform to protect jobs and the future of our world-class industry.”
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