Goodwood chief renews support for 'premierisation' but backs independent tracks' call for trial period

Goodwood managing director Adam Waterworth yesterday backed the need for 'premierisation' in British racing following criticism from other independent tracks, but described a proposal for a trial period of controversial initiatives such as the cutting of Saturday fixtures as a "sensible" step. 

The concept of creating 'premier' slots on the calendar between 2pm and 4pm for 35 Saturdays was heavily criticised on Wednesday by smaller independent tracks, some of which have threatened legal action over potentially losing valuable fixtures. A trial period – described as an "olive branch" by Thirsk and Catterick chief executive James Sanderson – has been proposed. 

Waterworth, the man responsible for overseeing Glorious Goodwood, one of the biggest weeks of the year, said any decision on changes to the fixture list should be based on evidence. He suggested a six-week window would provide enough time to gain enough data to assess its impact. But Waterworth also stressed the requirement for change, saying the top end of the sport last season failed to meet expectations.