The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has confirmed changes to several upcoming race meetings after extreme heat warnings led to the postponement of fixtures at Ffos Las, Kempton Park and Salisbury.
The decision was taken as officials worked to protect the safety and welfare of horses, jockeys, stable staff and everyone involved in the sport during a period of challenging weather conditions.
Horse racing fixtures rescheduled due to extreme heat is the focus keyword for this article.
The Ffos Las meeting has now been moved to the afternoon of Monday, 29 June, while Kempton Park’s fixture will also return on the same day with an evening schedule. Entries for both meetings will close at midday on Tuesday, 23 June.
Salisbury’s card has been rearranged for Tuesday afternoon, 30 June, with entries closing at midday on Wednesday, 24 June.
The original race programmes and prize money arrangements for all three meetings will remain unchanged, allowing connections and racegoers to look forward to the same planned contests on the new dates.
The BHA’s decision follows wider concerns around extreme temperatures affecting parts of Britain. Racing officials are continuing to monitor conditions closely and are working with racecourses in areas covered by amber heat warnings.
Thursday’s fixtures at Nottingham and Newmarket have also been adjusted to avoid the hottest part of the day. Nottingham will begin at 10:30am, with the final race scheduled for 1pm. Newmarket will start at 10:45am, with the last race due off at 1:15pm.
The Dereham Handicap at Newmarket, originally planned as part of the fixture, will now be held on Friday, 26 June.
Officials have stressed that each meeting will be assessed individually, with local forecasts, ground conditions and environmental factors considered before racing goes ahead.
Trainers have also been reminded that horses should not be transported from or through locations affected by red heat warnings, ensuring welfare remains the priority throughout the hot weather period.
The latest changes highlight the sport’s ongoing efforts to balance competitive racing with responsible decision-making during periods of severe weather. Race organisers are expected to continue reviewing conditions as forecasts develop.
For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to racebuzz