The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has announced that all British horse racing will be suspended on the day of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral. On what will be a national holiday, September 19, 2022 will mark a day of respect, on which all sporting events will be suspended.
Racing was the only major sport scheduled for the day, but all competitions were canceled as a sign of respect. The BHA says the cancellations will give everyone involved in British racing the opportunity to mourn Her Majesty’s passing and give thanks for their contribution to the sport and the nation.
More information about reorganized races will be shared with participants, racetracks and the public in the coming days, the BHA says. The races, however, will continue for the remainder of the period until the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II.
All races resumed after cancellations over the weekend after Her Majesty’s passing was confirmed on Thursday the 8th. Horse racing was not the only sport to suspend activities.
The Premier League announced that games for the weekend of 10-12 September would not be held as a sign of respect for the Queen, who passed away less than 48 hours before the game’s scheduled date.
Major betting networks have also closed their doors, including William Hill and Betfred. In official statements, the operators expressed their sadness, announcing the closure on the evening of Thursday, September 8, and on Friday, September 9, as a sign of respect for the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
British Horseracing Authority paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, a great enthusiast of horse racing
“All British races are in mourning today following the passing of Her Majesty The Queen. Her Majesty was one of the biggest and most influential supporters in the history of horse racing. His passion for turf shone throughout his life.”
The statement added: “It is right, therefore, that all racing be suspended for today and tomorrow as we enter into mourning to mourn Her Majesty’s death and to remember her extraordinary life and contribution to our sport and our nation.”
BHA President Joe Saumarez Smith said: “The Racing Team owes an incalculable debt of gratitude, not only for Her Majesty’s dedication and commitment to the sport, but for her public defense of it.”
