Churchill Downs Gives Update on Kentucky Derby Status Amid COVID-19 Outbreak
By Mark Powell
The Kentucky Derby hasn't been cancelled due to the COVID-19 outbreak in the United States, at least not yet.
The annual May tradition at Churchill Downs could potentially be suspended, but no decision has been made as of yet, according to the racetrack.
Churchill Downs just released a statement about the Kentucky Derby (May 2).
— Zach Everson (@Z_Everson) March 14, 2020
Executive summary: Still reviewing the situation regarding the timing of Derby 146.https://t.co/RqCqwUsX73 pic.twitter.com/2hS7KogNZE
"In the best interest of our guests, employees and the community around us amid public health concerns regarding the Coronavirus pandemic, Churchill Downs Racetrack has made the difficult decision to voluntarily suspend simulcasting operations, effective Sunday, March 15 at midnight, for fourteen days. There have been no reported cases of COVID-19 at Churchill Downs Racetrack. We sincerely apologize for this abrupt notice and any inconvenience it may cause," Churchill Downs released in a statement.
Churchill Downs is cautious -- as they should be, and as much as fans would be disappointed if the Derby has to be delayed or cancelled altogether, we're clearly at a stage where public health is more important than sports.
"I'm hearing maybe June or in September."
— WKYT Sports (@wkytsports) March 15, 2020
Bob Baffert said he is hearing that Churchill Downs is not going to run the Derby without the people there and that the date may be moved.https://t.co/7S6PB4Vrpt
Latest CDC recommendations suggest sporting events could be on hold for another two months.