As the U.K. lifts Covid-19 restrictions, the country is testing pilot programs to ensure the various sports venues can handle the crowds coming and going from events and during the competition inside. Racecourses could be the next wave of events entering a pilot program.
Up to now, the lack of track representation in the process and attendance restrictions does not sit well with fans and participants, according to the Racing Post.
“It’s ridiculous that I can walk out of here and have a beer with those happy owners but on a racecourse I can’t see them,” trainer Tom Dascombe told Sky Sports Racing. “It makes no sense.”
David Armstrong, chief executive of the Racecourse Association, said discussions are ongoing. Crowd participation is tested in football, snooker and concerts. Tracks are on the immediate horizon ahead of the end of restrictions on June 21.
The Royal Ascot, to run June 15 to 19, could be a test venue with up to 10,000 spectators permitted.
“The government is keen for us to take part but whether we do or not will not affect our readiness for crowds to return, so I’m reasonably relaxed about it,” Armstrong said.
Easing of restrictions May 17 could mean as many as 4,000 attendees might be let into British tracks, including spectators.
“I get the frustration but I think we have communicated across the sport that we have to follow the protocols and those protocols are set by the government,” Armstrong said.
