Although UK racing has had its hopes dashed for a quick return to racing, even behind closed doors, the overseer of French racing, France Galop is still hoping that – like New Zealand and South African jurisdictions – they will be able to resume in May.
According to AAP, authorities in France, also including the trotting community, are attempting to convince the country’s government of a speedy return following an extension of France’s lockdown by President Macron until mid-May.
Justifying their request, France Galop put out a statement noting the industry’s adherence to protocols prior to the shutdown:
“Before horse racing was suspended, the industry had shown its ability to organise meetings behind closed doors whilst maintaining an excellent level of risk prevention of spreading the virus. In the context of racing behind closed doors, access to the racecourse had been strictly limited to a minimum of professionals who are essential for the organisation of a race meeting.”
The statement concluded, “Also, since the beginning of the lockdown, training activities at the different training centres in Paris and in the provinces, have been carried out in the strictest conformity with the instructions and rules of social distancing.”
