Coronavirus: Royal Ascot 2020 will not open to public

Organisers of Royal Ascot 2020 have confirmed the race will not be open to the public, due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Members of the public were due to attend the five day event in Berkshire, between 16th-20th June.

In a statement, Ascot Racecourse said the announcement was an "unavoidable conclusion" and "a great disappointment for everyone" who had been planned to go.

However, racing might still take place behind closed doors, subject to Government advice and public health policy.

Credit: PA Images

Customers who have already paid for entry and hospitality at Royal Ascot will be refunded in full.

Organisers will get in touch with the public about refunds via email.

Guy Henderson, Chief Executive, Ascot Racecourse said they "look forward to being able to welcome racegoers back when it is safe to do so."

He added: "Meanwhile, our thoughts are with all those grieving and suffering as a result of Covid-19."