Betfred no nearer to TRP deal despite Ladbrokes Coral agreement

Betfred remain no nearer to a deal with betting shop television channel The Racing Partnership despite the group reaching an agreement with Ladbrokes Coral earlier this week.

The channel, which represents the 15 Arc-owned racecourses and a further seven independent venues, was available in the 3,820 Ladbrokes and Coral betting shops across Britain for the first time on Friday, leaving Betfred as the sole major high street firm left to agree a deal.

However, it is understood that the two parties remain at an impasse, with no further discussions having taken place recently.

Betfred on Friday declined to comment on any TRP negotations.

The Ladbrokes Coral deal, announced by TRP on Thursday, is believed to be for five years and was described by the group as "a first of its kind", as it is based purely on a profit-shared model.

"It is testament to the symbiotic nature of racing and betting that we have been able to agree a deal based on sound commercial principles for both parties," said Arc chief executive Martin Cruddace.

"I am very grateful for the patience and support of my shareholders."

Martin Cruddace: 'We are delighted to have agreed this deal'

No deal for on-course shops

The stand-off led to the closure of Ladbrokes betting shops at six Arc courses. While the dispute with TRP has now been resolved, racegoers at Lingfield on Saturday should not expect to see the firm's shop open for business again.

A decision on the future of the shop now lies with Arc. The media rights deal is in no way linked to any on-course betting shops and there has been no communication between Arc and Ladbrokes about renewing an agreement to provide on-course fixed odds betting.

It is understood Ladbrokes themselves are also yet to decide what they would opt to do in the event Arc sought to reintroduce the firm to any of their courses.