Haras de Bouquetot to temporarily suspend stallion activity from Monday

Haras de Bouquetot, the Normandy breeding operation of Al Shaqab Racing, will close its doors on Monday and for at least two weeks in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

There are currently eight stallions on the books at the stud, headed by much-vaunted young prospect Shalaa (a €25,000 cover) and Group 1 performers Olympic Glory, Al Wukair, Ectot and Toronado. Derby hero Ruler Of The World has joined the fold for this season, with the roster completed by Zelzal and Mekhtaal.

A statement from Bouquetot said that the decision was made in the "current context of human sanitary crisis and in the fight against the spreading of virus Covid-19". Covers already booked will be ensured until Sunday but that new bookings will not be accepted.

In a statement, it said: "Fully aware of the economical impact this decision may have on breeders, our priority remains the health and safety of our staff and clients, considering the gravity of this crisis and in accordance with all drastic measures recently taken across Europe."

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