Chelmsford racecourse’s remaining scheduled fixtures have been cancelled as the track loses its licence. Elsewhere, an exposé highlighted numerous issues related to black market bookmaking.
Ahead of the Easter weekend’s racing, here is today’s racing news round-up for Thursday.
Chelmsford racecourse loses licence
The remaining fixtures scheduled at Chelmsford racecourse have been cancelled after the track lost its licence. The Essex venue was set to host a meeting on Good Friday. The British Horseracing Authority refused the request of Golden Mile Racing Limited, the new tenants of the racecourse. Chelmsford had expanded in recent years to become a concert and wedding venue as well as a race track. The BHA has refused to reveal its reasoning for the decision to withhold a licence. (BBC)
Black market bookmakers accepted “Red Rum account”
An undercover exposé has revealed some shocking truths about black market bookmaking in the UK. Alex Wood of the BBC discovered that advertising for such brands has extended to social media adverts from influencers. As well as this, Wood signed up for accounts under the names “Red Rum” and “Constitution Hill”. He also listed addresses such as “Cheltenham racecourse” and “Buckingham Palace”, but was always able to create said accounts. (Racing Post)
Grand National latest: L’Homme Presse out with Townend expected on I Am Maximus
Connections have revealed they are “completely devastated” that L’Homme Presse will miss the 2026 Grand National. Venetia Williams’ star, who was fifth in the Gold Cup last month at the age of 11, was the second highest-rated British horse in the provisional field. However, he was found to be lame on Wednesday, ruling him out of the big race. Part-owner Andy Edwards reported that he could not pass a veterinary test and would not be able to run even if fully recovered next Saturday. (Sky Sports)
JP McManus’ racing manager Frank Berry is expecting Paul Townend to ride I Am Maximus at Aintree. This is despite Townend himself suggesting he will wait as long as possible to make the decision. That is because Grangeclare West fired himself towards the top of the market after winning the Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse. However, Berry said he “would be very surprised if Paul wasn’t riding I Am Maximus” at Aintree. (PA via Racing TV)
Towcester closer to returning racing
Conversely to Chelmsford, racehorses are closer to returning to Towcester. The track closed in 2018 after 90 years in official operation, although racing on their turf has been going on intermittently since the 18th century. Now, after eight years without hosting horse racing, there is hope of a potential return. Significant work has been undertaken at the track, with gallops now available to use this spring. Should trainers like the new facilities, racing could return in 2027. (Racing Post)