Derby to Stay at Epsom This Year After Approval Issued | Race News

The Investec Derby will remain in its traditional Epsom home this year after members of the local council unanimously approved a request to host the Classic behind closed doors on a Saturday in July or August Tuesday.

The Jockey Club racetracks had applied for permission to hold the Derby and Oaks on the same day as part of a seven-race card, as well as to restrict access to the site.

Although the Downs are owned by Epsom, there are public trails and walkways and the app has requested that access to certain areas be restricted for 24 hours to be able to benefit from a closed door card .

The plans remain subject to government approval for the resumption of crowd-free racing, which will not be until June 1 at the latest, and to more detailed planning with local authorities and the British Horse Racing Authority.

Delia Bushell, executive director of the Jockey Club group, said in a statement: "We are working hard on a practical and deliverable plan to accommodate the Investec Derby and Investec Oaks 2020 in their traditional home, without a crowd and once the races are over. Approved for government takeover.

"I would like to express my sincere thanks to curators Epsom and Walton Downs for their support today. These two classics play a vital role in the racing and thoroughbred industries, so it is of great importance that they can move forward.this difficult time.

"Our teams are now looking forward to working with the British Horseracing Authority and local authorities to make our plan a reality."