Racing Channel to shut down

Armchair punters have suffered a blow following news that the Racing Channel is to close at the end of this month.

Programming for the channel, owned by US sports broadcaster TRNI, is produced by Satellite Information Services, who also handle distribution.

SIS's chief executive David Holdgate said he had been informed of TRNI's decision following that company's failure to reach agreement for continued coverage of racing in Ireland.

Irish coverage ended on New Year's Day following the decision of Horse Racing Ireland to end their permission for the Racing Channel to broadcast Irish racing free of charge, which had been allowed since May.

HRI demanded a guaranteed minimum income for the broadcast rights and TRNI decided against entering a bid.