The racecourse was due to stage its first fixture of 2026 on Saturday but it was abandoned 48 hours ahead of the meeting after an inspection of the track
Brighton was due to host a seven race card on Saturday evening(Image: Getty Images)
Officials at Brighton racecourse apologised on Thursday for calling off its first race meeting of 2026. The seaside track had attracted 123 entries for its popular seven race Saturday evening fixture.
But ground staff have been trying to address issues with the racing surface and 48 hours ahead of the meeting the decision was taken to abandon the programme.
An announcement on the BHA’s admin site said: “Following this morning’s pre-declarations course walk, further areas of damage to the racing surface have now been identified in consultation with the BHA course inspectorate. With their approval the racing surface has been deemed unfit for racing and the fixture has been abandoned.”
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The racecourse has not expanded on the extent of the damage nor the cause, but hopes to host its next scheduled meeting on April 28.
A statement said: “Unfortunately, the opening fixture of the 2026 season at Brighton Racecourse on Saturday 18th April has been abandoned this morning (April 16th) due to damage to the racing surface.
“The areas of concern were being well managed by our ground staff team ahead of the meeting through treatment to the track which had a positive and encouraging effect. We had also arranged movement of running rail lines and reduced the field size limits to counter the issues.
“However, the situation has worsened significantly overnight on Wednesday to the extent that there are now damaged areas on the track that cannot be avoided.
“Safety always comes first, and therefore we have been left with no option to abandon the race meeting with the approval of the British Horseracing Authority Inspector of Courses.
“We are bitterly disappointed that our efforts have been in vain and would like to apologise for the inconvenience.
“Looking ahead, we are doing everything we can to resolve the track issue ahead of our next fixtures on Tuesday 28th and Wednesday 29th April. Further updates will be released as soon as possible.
“All customers who have booked tickets, the restaurant or hospitality for this Saturday’s race day will be contacted by our customer service team to outline the options available including a transfer to another fixture or a refund.”
