Breeders’ Cup to be Run Without Fans at Track

The Breeders’ Cup will be run in November without fans at the track as a result of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, officials announced Saturday.

“The decision to hold this year’s Breeders’ Cup World Championships without fans in attendance was not made lightly,” said Drew Fleming, the Breeders’ Cup president and chief executive officer. “However, after many months of careful deliberation, planning and consultation, it has become abundantly clear that this is the right decision in order to proceed with our event while still protecting the collective health of our community.”

The two-day series of races — set for Nov. 6 and 7 at Keeneland — will be the latest in a series of races, including the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont, to be held without fans on the track.

On-site attendance will be limited to essential personnel and participants, according to the Breeders’ Cup.

Ticket holders will receive a full refund and will be granted the first opportunity to buy the same or similar tickets to the Breeders’ Cup when Keeneland hosts the event for a third time in 2022, officials said.

Officials noted that the decision was made following close, continuous communications with Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, Keeneland, local and state government and public health officials and independent medical experts to fully assess the conditions under which major sporting events may expect to operate safely in the coming months.