In spite of requests for a deferral, the 2021 Grand National is still planned to occur on April 10th – Horse Racing – iGB
The British Horseracing Authority has verified that the 2021 Grand National will proceed as scheduled on April 10th, despite calls from the sector to postpone the UK’s biggest horse racing competition until after betting shops reopen.
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The Grand National is still set for April 10th, despite pleas for postponement
Earlier this week, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson unveiled the UK’s roadmap out of the Covid-19 lockdown, which included allowing betting shops to resume operations alongside other non-essential retail outlets from April 12th.
Following the declaration, the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) requested that the Grand National be postponed until after betting shops reopen to help maximize the revenue land-based operators can produce from the event.
However, Dickon White, Regional Director for the British Horseracing Authority in the North West, stated that after consulting with partners and weighing the advantages and disadvantages of delaying the race, it will proceed as scheduled on April 10th.
“It’s been a very challenging time for both retail and on-course betting, and we very much hope that retail shops will be able to resume operations on April 12th, but as with many things in this pandemic, it’s far from certain at this point,” White stated.
The British Prime Minister has stated plainly that the removal of limitations in England is an ideal outcome, not a definite promise, and we are already aware that stores in Scotland will not be operational.
Although the schedule is unclear, there are some disadvantages to delaying the competition, as well as some potential benefits, but with only six weeks remaining before the event, there is no compelling reason to make changes for such a significant occasion.
Consequently, the three-day competition will proceed as planned from April 8th to 10th.
The CEO of BGC, Michael Dugher, expressed his dissatisfaction with the decision, referring to it as a “discouraging setback” for the retail betting industry.
Dugher remarked, “A brief postponement of the competition could have provided a much-needed boost for racing, commercial districts, and the numerous bettors who support the sport.”
“Competitions are frequently rescheduled, including recently due to unfavorable weather conditions. Naturally, there are risks associated with any decision, but I am disheartened that the ‘can-do’ spirit has not prevailed in this situation.”
“This choice will also come as a surprise to many who comprehend the dire financial predicament facing racing at this time.”
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