The restriction on runners from overseas in certain, low-grade Flat handicaps has been removed, the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) announced on Wednesday.
Only horses trained by BHA-licensed trainers had been able to compete in Class 5 and 6 handicaps between September 1 and December 31, since the restriction was introduced at the beginning of 2023, at the conclusion of the broader COVID-related restrictions. The BHA reported that it was put in place “in order to maximise opportunities for the horse population”.
The topic has since been reviewed by the Racing Committee and Commercial Committee, who “assessed relevant data, as well as other practical considerations” before making their recommendation to the BHA Board. With this approval now granted, the restriction will be removed from the end of the Turf season in Britain, affecting races staged from Monday, November 11 onwards.
Richard Wayman, director of racing at the BHA, said, “As a general principle, British racing welcomes international competition but the existing restriction was introduced to help ensure that horses trained on these shores could find sufficient opportunities to run in the autumn. Historically, this was the time of year when eliminations were a real issue, with the race programme unable to meet the demand for races for the Flat horse population. This was especially the case at the lower levels.
“Circumstances have now evolved, however, including the fact that we have moved nearly 150 races from the summer into the autumn as part of the efforts to improve field sizes. As a result, we no longer believe that there is a need for the restriction, although our handicappers will continue to withhold ratings for any overseas-trained horse where they have concerns about being able to make an accurate assessment of their ability.”
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