Devil in the detail as government assistance isn't all it's cracked up to be

They say you should never look a gift horse in the mouth, but the muted reaction from racecourses to the financial assistance offered – in England at least – by the government last week suggests they fear getting bitten.

What might at face value seem a simple offer is actually a lot more complicated, certainly with the details attached to the 'Winter Survival Package' yet to emerge.

The government has offered £300 million, mainly in loans, to major spectator sports most heavily impacted by Covid-related restrictions over the winter, of which racing can apply for £40m.