Charity calls for tighter safety measures after the death of Malinello on the first day of the Cheltenham Festival
Posted 14th March 2023
The comments come following the death of Malinello, which was destroyed after falling in the final race on the first day of the Cheltenham Festival.
Emma Judd, head of campaigns and communications at the League Against Cruel Sports, said “The tragic death of Malinello at the Cheltenham Festival today shows how the lives of horses are being sacrificed simply for entertainment and gambling.
“It’s time for change and for a new independent regulatory body with horse welfare as its number one priority to be introduced, as well as a ban on whip use during all races.”
The death toll at Cheltenham Festival has now reached 74 horses since the year 2000.
Four horses died at the 2022 Cheltenham Festival, despite organisers pledging ahead of the meet that they had done all they could to ensure the safety of the horses.
Emma added: “One death is a death too many, and but we’ve now seen scores of horses dying Cheltenham Festival since the turn of the century. The only answer can be tighter safety measures at racetracks in the UK, and proper scrutiny of horse welfare.”
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Notes to editors
For more information or interview requests please contact the League Against Cruel Sports Press Office on 07496 496454 (24hrs) or email pressoffice@league.org.uk
