Earlier this week, the UK government announced that outdoor sporting events in the lowest-risk areas could return in England after the second lockdown expires on 2 December.
A maximum of 4,000 fans will be allowed to enter venues in tier one areas, with up to 2,000 admitted in tier two regions but none in tier three. The news represents the first time since March in which spectators are allowed to watch live sport in England.
As a result, racecourse operator ARC said it will not charge on-course bookmakers at any of its 52 remaining meetings for 2020 which allows spectators to attend in the lowest tier regions
ARC racing division managing director Mark Spincer, said: “We await further information regarding regional tiers, and to ascertain which venues we will be able to admit spectators in England, but we are in the process of making sure that racing fans and owners can enjoy the experience of coming to racing again as soon as possible, in a safe manner.”
On-course bookmaker Keith Johnson added: “This tangible support will be for the benefit of many in the industry, and will be very much appreciated. “As restrictions are eased, we can start to look to the future with more confidence and work together to bring a bit of a buzz back to the betting ring once more.”
