A number of prominent bookmakers have asked the organisers of the Grand National to push back the race to allow betting shops to reopen.
The Grand National is due to take place on April 10, just 2 days before non-essential shops, including bookmakers, can reopen.
PR Director for Coral, Simon Clare, has suggested that postponing the famous horse race would give the sport a much needed financial boost following the Covid-19 lockdown.
Mr Clare said: “Now we’ve seen the dates for the Government road map – which are provisional – and the fact that there is potential for betting shops to open on April 12, the obvious issue is the Grand National.
“It is the biggest betting race of the year – the race which millions of people enjoy as a national celebration. It was lost to the pandemic in 2020, and would take place two days before the shops open this year.
“It is the one race where betting shops provide a big service. There are a lot of once-a-year punters who want to come and have a bet on the big race.
“There’s the celebratory aspect of the Grand National. It’s the showcase for racing and for betting – so we’d love to see it happen.”
“The Grand National is the biggest betting race of the year. It’s worth 10 times more than the Cheltenham Gold Cup, which is the second biggest, in turnover.
“Obviously, racing has done an amazing job being flexible during the pandemic. It’s been an amazing effort.
“It may not be possible – but if it can be done, it would be fantastic.”