Festival crowds will be capped after calls for reduced numbers

» SPECTATOR capacity at Cheltenham Racecourse will be capped at 68,500 people per day for the four days of The National Hunt Festival in 2023 to enhance the experience of racegoers attending.

This year The Festival attracted a record aggregate attendance of 280,627, including record individual attendances for both the Thursday (73,754) and Friday (73,875).

As part of planning next year’s event, The Jockey Club gathered and reviewed feedback from racegoers and participants about their experience.

While this was very positive towards the world-class sport on offer and the high standard of facilities at Cheltenham, which have helped The Festival to enjoy strong growth in recent years, it was also clear that many wished to see reduced spectator numbers to ease movement around the course and enhance service times.

Ian Renton, the Jockey Club’s managing director for Cheltenham and the West Region, said: “With Covid-19 spectator restrictions lifted, The Festival made a spectacular return in

2022, welcoming record crowds to enjoy a tremendous atmosphere and the very best of jump racing.

“It was fantastic to attract capacity crowds on both Thursday and Friday to witness some brilliant racing in glorious sunshine.

“However, we are well aware that our facilities, even after significant investment in recent years, are stretched at these attendance levels.

“Despite the financial implications of reducing attendance numbers, we will be capping daily capacity at 68,500 in the recognition of the importance of ensuring that The Festival remains an attractive and enjoyable experience for the longterm.

“Ticket sales for 2023 have been very brisk and I would advise those wishing to attend to book as soon as possible to avoid any possible disappointment.”

Tickets for all Cheltenham fixtures can be bought online at www. thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham/events-tickets/