The postponement of Euro 2020 and the cancellation of all UK horse racing events have led to significant losses for the gambling industry. Yesterday it was announced that the Euro 2020 football tournament would be postponed until mid-2021 in order to mitigate the further spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus). Due to be held between 12 June and 12 July 2020, the event is now penciled in for 11 June and 12 July next year, 2021.
The decision to postpone was not an easy one to make and involved a discussion with all 55 of Europe's national football associations. "We have decided today that we postponed the Euro and we have 100% full support of all 55 national associations, European Leagues, European Club Association and Fifpro", said UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin.
On the same day, the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) announced the suspension of all horse racing events until at least the end of April. Speaking on the suspension, BHA Chief Executive Nick Rust said: "..our first duty is to the health of the public, our customers and to racing industry participants and staff".
Quarantine measures
In the United States, Las Vegas casinos have closed their doors following a 30-day shutdown request from Nevada state governor Steve Sisolak. The quarantine measures, coupled with the cancellation of sports events around the world, has led gamblers to explore new avenues. Online casino sites like casinosx.com are seeing a surge in traffic as citizens choose to stay home and gamble online.
Citizens across Europe have also been requested to stay indoors and "self-isolate"; in order to reduce the spread of the virus. Earlier today, EU leaders agreed to impose a 30-day travel ban on foreigners entering Europe. The plan does not include long-term EU residents, diplomats, and healthcare workers.
Looking Ahead
The situation is changing at a rapid pace with new developments occurring on a daily basis. It is likely we will see even more events canceled in the coming days and further request for government assistance. The UK’s Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has issued a statement requesting financial support to help cover payroll costs as well as relief from duties and tax.