A major rule change is set to send shockwaves through the horse racing world, as British officials aim to crack down on the dominance of Irish trainers Willie Mullins and Gordon Elliott.
Reducing the number of runners per trainer
According to a report by the Racing Post, top figures in the industry have been approached about implementing a new rule that would limit the number of runners any one trainer can enter in a race. Under the proposed plan, trainers would be restricted to declaring a maximum of four runners in big handicaps over jumps and on the Flat.
Mullins and Elliott to feel the impact
It is expected that this rule change would have a significant impact on the training yards of Mullins and Elliott, who have consistently fielded large numbers of runners in high-profile races. This year, Elliott entered six horses in the Grand National, while Mullins had five.
Controversy surrounding Elliott's entry of 17 runners
Elliott recently faced backlash for entering a staggering 17 runners in a single race, leading to criticism from punters who claimed that the sport was being compromised. Both Elliott and Mullins have also dominated the big handicap races at the Cheltenham Festival, with Elliott alone entering six horses in this year's Martin Pipe.
Urgency to implement the new rule
There is a sense of urgency to introduce this rule change in time for the upcoming Grand National. Racing authorities have already made several key changes to the iconic race, including reducing the number of runners from 40 to 34.
A spokesperson for the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) declined to comment on the specifics of the discussions, stating that the organization regularly seeks input from stakeholders on various matters.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
