Derby to go ahead at Epsom as behind-closed-doors race gets green light

The Derby is set to remain at Epsom this season after local officials gave approval for the race to go ahead this summer.

It had been scheduled to take place on June 6 but has since been shifted to a currently unspecified date in July or August but behind closed doors with no public access allowed to the racecourse land in the 24 hours leading up to the race.

A meeting on Tuesday gave the go-ahead for the Derby at Epsom, allaying fears it might not run for the first time since the Second World War.

The entire racecourse will be fenced off for the seven-race card, with Epsom boss Simon Durrant saying he hoped it would take place “roughly six weeks” after racing resumes, which it is hoped will be June 1.

Jockey Club chief executive Delia Bushell said: “These Classics play a vital role in the thoroughbred racing and breeding industries so it’s of great importance for them to be able to go ahead during this difficult period