Contingency plans are being put in place ahead of the Cheltenham Festival over the potential impact of Coronavirus.
A number of sporting events globally have already been cancelled due to the virus and Ireland's Six Nations clash with Italy looks set to be added to that list.
A number of Serie A games in Italy will be played behind closed doors this weekend, including the clash between Juventus and Inter Milan.
British Horse Racing chief executive Nick Rust has confirmed that an industry steering group is in place to consider the implications of the virus.
Speaking on a Betfair podcast he said: "“We have an industry group in place that has been and continues to work on the potential impact of the coronavirus on the horse racing industry as a whole.
“The BHA executive met with the team at Cheltenham Racecourse on Monday morning to discuss final plans for the Festival, and the coronavirus was discussed at that meeting.”
He added: “In terms of potential ramifications for the Festival, any decision that impacts on it taking place will not be a decision that racing makes, but rather the Government.
“In the event that the Cheltenham Festival was postponed, either in its entirety or in part for any reason, there are contingencies already in place to re-stage it later in the season."
A Jockey Club spokesman said on Tuesday: “It remains full speed ahead for The Festival™ presented by Magners in a fortnight’s time.
“Racing continues to liaise closely with the Government to stay on top of the situation, and we are looking forward to four fantastic days of racing at Cheltenham.”
