The BHA Board confirms the lifting of the restriction on foreign runners with certain flat disabilities

Following a meeting of the BHA board this week, it has been confirmed that a restriction on overseas-trained runners in certain low-level Flat handicaps has been lifted.

The restriction, which was introduced in early 2023 at the end of the wider COVID-related restrictions, meant that between September 1 and December 31, only horses trained by BHA-licensed trainers could compete in Class 5 and 6 handicaps, in order to maximize opportunities for the horse population.

The subject was reviewed by the Racing Committee and the Commercial Committee, who assessed relevant data and other practical considerations before making their recommendation to the BHA Board. Now that this approval has been granted, the restriction will be lifted from the end of the artificial grass season in Great Britain, impacting races due to be held from Monday 11 November.

Richard Wayman, race director at the BHAsaid: “As a general principle, British racing welcomes international competition, but the existing restriction was introduced to ensure that horses trained on these shores can find ample opportunities to race in the autumn. Historically, this was the time of year when eliminations were a real problem, with the racing program unable to meet the demand for racing for the flat horse population. This was especially the case at the lower levels.

“However, circumstances have now changed, including the fact that we have moved almost 150 races from summer to autumn as part of efforts to improve field size. As a result, we no longer believe there is a need for the restriction, although our handicappers will continue to withhold assessments for any foreign-trained horse if they have concerns about the ability to make an accurate assessment of their abilities. ”