Kentucky Derby Reverses Decision to Have Fans in Stands

Firstly, Kentucky Derby reverses decision to have fans in attendance on Saturday. Shocking? The 2020 Kentucky Derby will be run without fans in the stands. For the first time ever. On Friday, Churchill Downs announced the decision, citing increasing COVID-19 cases in the area.

Secondly, before Friday’s announcement, Churchill Downs had initially planned to restrict attendance to 23,000 people. This has changed. What does this mean for tickets? Read below.

“We were confident in that plan. However, dedicated to remaining flexible using the best and most reliable information available,” the track said in a statement. “With the current significant increases in COVID-19 cases in Louisville as well as across the region, we needed to again revisit our planning.

“We deeply regret the disappointment. Sadness this will bring to our loyal fans.”

News on Kentucky Derby Reverses Decision

Churchill Downs had based its attendance limit on 14% of the 2015 record of 170,513. With reserved seating limited to 40% occupancy. General admission would have been limited to the 26-acre infield.

Furthermore, according to Churchill Downs. The decision has the support of Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear. Beshear said the virus continues to spread in the state. Beshear also cited a White House announcement that Louisville and surrounding Jefferson County are considered a “red zone” for the virus. Do you have tickets already?

Will Kentucky Derby 2021 Be on Schedule?

It will be the second Triple Crown race this year without fans in attendance. Following the Belmont Stakes in June. The Derby and Kentucky Oaks for fillies were postponed from May 1-2 to Sept. 4-5 because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Now, the Derby and Oaks will go off without anyone beneath the Twin Spires, for instance. 2020 has been different to say the least. Additionally, horses will be older.

“It’s unfortunate. I don’t want to repeat it. Obviously,” Churchill Downs president Kevin Flanery said at a news conference. “There are more important things, and right now the important thing is the safety of our community, of our guests.”

In conclusion, fans will be not allowed to attend.