A seven-race fixture at Brighton Racecourse has been cancelled after wildlife damaged the turf, leaving the track unsafe for racing. The meeting, which was set to start the 2026 season on Saturday 18 April, was abandoned due to damage caused by badgers and birds feeding on leatherjackets – the larvae of crane flies.
Despite early efforts by ground staff to tackle the leatherjacket infestation and attempts to protect the course by moving running rails and reducing field sizes, the overnight damage worsened. Badgers and birds dug up patches of the track that could not be avoided during racing, forcing officials to cancel the meeting.
The decision to cancel was made on safety grounds and supported by a British Horseracing Authority course inspector. Brighton Racecourse officials expressed their “bitter disappointment” after their efforts to save the fixture failed and apologised for the disruption caused to racegoers.
Repair work is already underway to restore the track ahead of the next scheduled meetings on Tuesday, 28 April and Wednesday, 29 April. Those who booked tickets, hospitality, or restaurant packages will be contacted with options for refunds or transfers to other race days.
Originally published by UKNIP.
