Should this year’s Royal Ascot meeting be allowed to take place, it will do so behind closed doors without the public in attendance.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Chief Executive Guy Henderson said: “It may prove possible to run the Royal Ascot races behind closed doors, dependent on government and public health policy and the approval of the BHA for us to restart racing.
“This would be for the benefit of the industry, our valued partners and suppliers and our television audiences at home and international. Planning for this is now our complete focus and we will update on progress as and when we can.
“The pandemic will have a significant financial impact on our business in 2020, along with so many others. Nevertheless, Ascot Racecourse will come through this crisis and we look forward to being able to welcome racegoers back when it is safe to do so.
“Meanwhile, our thoughts are with all those grieving and suffering as a result of COVID-19. We offer heartfelt thanks to our wonderful NHS staff, key workers and volunteers for all their selfless dedication.”
Ascot also revealed that its meeting scheduled for May 8-9 will take place behind closed doors if given the go-ahead.
