The Grand National is set to take place on April 10th as originally planned, despite requests from the racing industry to reschedule the competition.
The British Horseracing Authority has officially confirmed that the 2021 Grand National will proceed on April 10th as initially scheduled, even though some in the industry have urged for the postponement of the UK’s most prominent horse racing event until after betting shops resume operations.
Earlier this week, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson revealed the UK’s roadmap for exiting the coronavirus (Covid-19) lockdown, which includes the reopening of betting shops alongside other non-essential retail outlets starting April 12th.
Following this announcement, the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) advocated for the Grand National to be moved to a later date, after betting shops reopen, to maximize revenue for land-based operators from the event.
However, Dickon White, the regional director for the northwest region of the British Horseracing Authority, stated that the race would proceed as planned on April 10th after consulting with interested parties and carefully considering the advantages and disadvantages of delaying the race.
White remarked: “The retail and racecourse betting sector has faced a challenging period, and we sincerely hope that retail shops can reopen on April 12th, but as with many aspects of this pandemic, this remains uncertain at present.”
The British leader has stated that the plan for removing restrictions in England is an optimistic outlook, not a promise, and we already know that stores in Scotland will not be open.
Although there is uncertainty about the timing, there could be some negative consequences from a delay, but there could also be some positive aspects, so there is no valid reason to modify one of the most significant events in this timetable with only six weeks remaining.
Therefore, the three-day gathering will remain on its original schedule of April 8-10.
The head of BGC, Michael Dugher, criticized the decision, calling it a “discouraging setback” to the retail betting industry.
Dugher stated: “A brief postponement of the event could have provided a much-needed boost for horse racing, commercial districts, and the numerous betting fans who support this great sport.”
“Gatherings are often rescheduled, including recently due to unfavorable weather. Certainly, there are risks with any choice, but I regret that the ‘can-do’ attitude did not prevail in this instance.”
“This choice will also surprise many who comprehend the current challenging financial situation facing horse racing.”
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