DURBAN - The Vodacom Durban July will take place this year but behind closed doors as a broadcast only event.
Vodacom and Gold Circle confirmed that the event will go ahead but under the strict adherence to government's health protocols around Covid-19.
“Gold Circle and Vodacom are fully committed to running the 2020 Vodacom Durban July. Sadly, given the reality of the present circumstances, the race meeting will be staged behind closed doors and without spectators,” said Gold Circle CEO Michel Nairac.
Nairac said the race has enjoyed an uninterrupted history since first being run in 1897 – not even two world wars prevented the race from being run.
The proposed date for the race is Saturday 25 July, but the extremely fluid nature of the current pandemic means this could change as circumstances so dictate.
“Any decision we make around the Vodacom Durban July this year will be made as a responsible company committed to the safety of all who are involved. As a sponsor, we will work together with all relevant stakeholders and be guided by the horseracing fraternity and the experts in this industry, as well as in government, as we all work towards making this year’s race a reality,” said Michelle van Eyden, the Executive Head of Sponsorship at Vodacom.
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