Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
National blow may cost £100m
BOOKMAKERS are describing the cancellation of the Grand National as a “devastating blow” which may cost their industry in excess of £100 million.
The biggest betting race of the year, which would have featured Tiger Roll going for a hat-trick of wins, will not take place at Aintree next month, because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Asked what impact the move will have on the betting industry, Betfair spokesman Barry Orr projected the likely loss of more than £100 million in bookmakers’ revenue.
He said: “From a betting perspective, it is a serious body blow.
“Not only is it the highest-ranking race in terms of turnover on sportsbooks and highest volume on the exchange, but it’s also an important period for companies to engage with the betting and wider public.”
Unibet’s Brett Williams concurred on the estimated scale of lost finances, as well as voicing support for the decision which has had to be made not to run the 2020 National.
He said: “The cancellation of the Grand National meeting is a devastating loss for everyone and will cost the racing industry millions at a time when we are already feeling the strain of a completely decimated sporting calendar – but it goes without saying the treatment and care of those suffering, or potential sufferers, of the coronavirus is paramount and Unibet fully support the decision made by racing’s governing bodies.
“All bets on the Randox Health Grand National have been voided.”