The 2020 Grand National festival due to run between April 2 and 4 has been cancelled due to the coronavirus outbreak. The Jockey Club have released a statement in the aftermath of Boris Johnson's announcement earlier today, asking people to avoid mass gatherings. Renowned as the world's greatest steeplchase and the biggest betting event on the racing calendar, this year's race had been due to see Tiger Roll bid to join Red Rum as the only three-timer winner. A statement from the Jockey Club read: "Following the Government's new public health guidance regarding avoiding social contact and stopping non-essential travel, and its statement that emergency services are withdrawn from supporting mass gatherings from tomorrow, the Jockey Club has decided that it is no longer appropriate to stage the event. JUST IN: Francisco Garcia: Spanish football coach dies of coronavirus aged 21

Source: Express March 16, 2020 21:01 UTC