THE Cheltenham Festival is NOT under threat from the Coronavirus outbreak, as yet.
Officials have confirmed that an industry group has been set up to discuss the potential issues, but there is not thought to be any talks surrounding the postponement or changing of dates.
The Jockey Club also confirmed it is’ business as usual’ ahead of the Festival getting underway in 13 days time at Prestbury Park.
The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) admitted yesterday that a tripartite group of horsemen, the RCA and the BHA had been set up to discuss the issue, but at this stage no further action will be taken.
Talks have been positive between the Government, Department of Health and racing bodies with no threat to the start date of March 10th if things remain as they are.
The Italy versus Ireland Six Nations match is looking likely to be postponed in Dublin next weekend, but with the outbreak far worse in Italy, that has little bearing on the Festival and other sports.
With Premier League and Champions League football continuing with no contingency plans, it seems racing is getting itself worked up over something it can do little about.
The bookmakers agree and racing is currently close to 1-3 to go ahead as usual at Cheltenham on the Betfair Exchange and 10-1 that it does not.
A Cheltenham Racecourse spokesperson said: “All remains full speed ahead for The Festival in a fortnight’s time.
“Racing continues to liaise closely with government to stay on top of the situation and we are looking forward to four fantastic days of racing at Cheltenham.”
If the Coronavirus outbreak spreads to Britain or Ireland in the same way it has affected Italy, then the situation may change sooner rather than later.
But if that is to be the case, then the importance of the Festival in the grand scheme of society lessens dramatically anyway.
Coronavirus could well be a threat to the Cheltenham Festival, but it may be more of a threat to day-to-day life than a four day race meeting.
For now, it is very much sit back and enjoy the racing.
