Historic, the 2020 edition of the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe will be.
Winner in 2017 and 2018, in front of bleachers assaulted by 40,000 people, the English mare
Enable
could achieve the first hat-trick in the history of this century-old race.
But she could not count on the support of the crowd, especially the British.
Because, for the first time in a century, the Longchamp racecourse will only accommodate 1,000 spectators, the upsurge of the coronavirus requires.
“It's obviously a regret, admits Olivier Delloye, Managing Director of France Galop.
With hindsight, we can nevertheless be happy that it is running on its usual date and on its historic racecourse.
"
Is a derogation possible?
“Since the publication of the decree of July 11, which established a gauge of 5,000 spectators, we have worked hard to try to obtain a dispensation,” reveals Olivier Delloye.
The horse racing industry could claim strict compliance with health instructions on racetracks since the end of confinement.
Above all, the organizers thought to highlight the large area (57 ha) of the Bois de Boulogne racecourse.
"We had planned to create several very distinct areas capable of accommodating 5,000 people each," explains the director.
The device had been deemed effective by the prefecture.
But that was before the virus was actively circulating again.
Like Roland-Garros, located a few hectometers away, the Longchamp racecourse has not obtained an exemption.
"Reason wins," concedes Olivier Delloye.
What shortfall for the organization?
Despite the sanitary situation, and the changes in the calendar that are not favorable to optimal preparation, the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe poster looks great.
"The closed door does not detract from the interest of the race, with this attempt to triple by
Enable
and a very good field", underlines the leader.
What to fill the stands of Longchamp in normal times.
Apart from the lack of public outcry in the straight line, this intimate atmosphere has a cost for France Galop.
“For several years, we had developed attendance at Longchamp and our momentum was stopped by the pandemic, continues Oliver Delloye.
Between ticketing, hospitality and sponsorship, the shortfall will amount to 10 million euros.
"
How do riders and jockeys perceive this restriction?
Even with a gauge set at 5,000 people, France Galop had planned to reserve access to the racetrack to professionals only.
So, with 1,000 places available, the riders had no chance of being part of the party.
If Françoise (78) regrets the situation because “Arc day is one of the most beautiful of the year”, others are fatalistic.
52-year-old Parisian restaurateur Pascal discovered the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe in 2006. “I loved the atmosphere and it made me come back several times to experience this improbable day.
In the current context, going in camera is quite logical, but I hope to be here next year.
"
Used to the cheers of the crowd, the jockeys have learned to live for a few months without an audience, but do not get used to it.
“There will always be the emotion of victory in the most beautiful race in the world, recognizes Cristian Demuro, who will be associated with one of the favorites
Sottsass on
Sunday.
But - and I experienced it during confinement - it's sad when you turn to the stands after a great victory and there is hardly anyone there.
People's cries give us strength when we are fighting for victory.
"
How to follow the race anyway?
Without being able to sit in the stands, lovers of equestrian sport as well as novices will have the choice to see, from a distance, the champions rushing towards the finish post.
From 10:30 am, the specialized channel Equidia will devote its antenna to the biggest race in the world.
Renowned journalists and consultants will bring the event to life for ten hours.
On M 6 and Paris Première, you will dive behind the scenes of the racecourse before the race live.
