All sporting events in Ireland have been suspended following a Government announcement on Tuesday.

Racing has been continuing to stage meetings behind closed doors since March 13th, as countries around the world try to limit the spread of coronavirus.

However, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar announced on Tuesday that all sporting events, even those without spectators, would be cancelled.

Racing in Britain was suspended from last Wednesday, with no action anticipated before May 1st at the earliest.

HRI issued the following statement: "Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) confirms that racing will cease in Ireland as of midnight tonight as per the latest government guidelines on Covid-19. The board of Horse Racing Ireland will meet tomorrow morning (Wednesday) and will issue a press release soon after."

SUBSCRIBE TO THE IRISH FIELD & READ ALL OUR PREMIUM CONTENT