restrictions

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...

Group 1 winner Oxted (GB) (Mayson {GB}) is likely for the six-furlong Riyadh Dirt Sprint instead of the 1351 Turf Sprint at Riyadh in Saudi Arabia on Feb. 20. A winner of the G3 Abernant S. last June, the bay gelding added the G1 July Cup at Newmarket one month later. After undergoing wind surgery, Oxted resumed with a fifth in the Oct. 17 QIPCO British Champions Sprint S. "At the moment we are favouring the dirt really because it's six furlongs," said trainer Roger Teal, whose son Harry will...

As there is currently an increased rate of transmission of COVID-19 in the UK, British racing leaders have agreed with the UK Government to impose more stringent racemeeting restrictions beginning on Jan. 1, the British Horseracing Authority announced on Tuesday. Under the new restrictions, no owners will be permitted to attend Tier 4 race meetings and essential staff only are allowed at meetings in Tier 4 areas. In addition, no owners living in Tier 4 will be permitted to attend race meetings in Tiers 1-3. These restrictions also apply to...