May 11 Remains French Racing Start Date

Despite rumblings of growing uncertainty regarding the resumption of French racing on May 11, France Galop announced that the meetings were still greenlit as of late Friday evening in France. France has not conducted racing since Mar. 17 due to the coronavirus. The statement read:

“Since this morning, some alarmist reports have been circulating regarding the resumption of racing on 11 May in France, which have given racing professionals rise to legitimate concern. France Galop and LeTROT have worked tirelessly throughout the day to continue to convince the parties concerned of the absolute necessity to resume racing as planned and organised on 11 May.”

Earlier in the week it was confirmed that the Prefecture de Police de Paris had authorised the resumption of racing behind closed doors on May 11 in Paris. Paris was declared a “red zone” under the coronavirus lockdown restrictions. ParisLongchamp is one of three French racecourses that will be in operation on May 11, offering four group races-the G2 Prix d'Harcourt, G3 Prix la Grotte, G3 Prix de Fontainebleau and G3 Prix de Saint-George.