Latest RCA Statement Regarding 19 July 2021
The Racecourse Association (RCA) welcomes today’s announcement from the Prime Minister confirming that England will move to step 4 of the government Roadmap on Monday 19th July.
The RCA is working with racecourses in England to prepare for full capacities
The RCA, via its working groups and collaborative partnerships within the sport, is now focussing its attention on supporting racecourses in preparing for full capacities and seeking similar clarification from devolved Governments in Scotland and Wales.
RCA Chief Executive David Armstrong commented “It is fantastic news that racecourses in England will be able to welcome racegoers without restriction from Monday 19th July. The RCA is working closely with the racecourses in England to prepare for full capacities and we will continue to communicate with our industry partners and the devolved Governments for an update from Wales and Scotland.
“It has been a difficult time for the racing industry and we estimate that the pandemic has cost racecourses £400m. However, with some of the sport’s most iconic marquee events just around the corner, including the Qatar Goodwood Festival, Welcome to Yorkshire Ebor Festival and Cazoo St Leger Festival, it looks set to be a brilliant summer of racing. The RCA, alongside Great British Racing, is working to attract racegoers back on course, reminding everyone that racing is a great day out for all. It is also important to remember that racecourses are safe venues to visit. As well as having vast amounts of outdoor space the racecourses, in line with government messaging, will encourage spectators to remain vigilant and use their own judgement while on course to keep everybody comfortable and safe.
“In order to protect racing’s key participants, and minimise the risk of self-isolation it may be necessary for a small number of restrictions to remain in place, but these will be removed as soon as it is deemed safe to do so.”
