The crisis at La Plata continues, as Saturday’s card has also been canceled

The shutdown at La Plata will extend beyond two weeks, with no resolution in sight as both sides remain far apart in their demands

The ongoing crisis at Hipódromo de La Plata shows no signs of resolution, as stakeholders remain unable to reach common ground. The suspension of racing will extend further, with Saturday’s card officially canceled, dealing a significant financial blow to the industry on one of its most lucrative days—revenue that largely goes toward purse distribution.

The racetrack administration refuses to yield to jockeys’ demands for private medical care in the event of an accident. For years, such coverage was available through Hospital Español, but the service was discontinued due to persistent payment defaults.

Late Friday night, the administration issued an "important" statement, which not only named individuals but also contained several inaccuracies that further complicate the situation. The statement asserts that medical coverage is fully guaranteed, citing Article 22 of Law 13.253, which governs horse racing in the province of Buenos Aires. It outlines the following provisions:

• Emergency medical care at nearby public hospitals, coordinated through the Sistema Integrado de Emergencias Médicas (SIES).

• Accident insurance covering medical expenses up to $9,000,000, a daily allowance of $24,000 for up to 360 days, and a life or disability payout of $36,000,000.

• Monthly financial support of $20,000,000 to the Asociación Unificada de Jockeys y Cuidadores de La Plata, led by Matías Ferreyra—whose mention in the statement was clearly intentional.

The statement also claims that the Province of Buenos Aires funds purse money, infrastructure, technology, and commercial development at La Plata. However, this assertion is misleading. The provincial government does not directly finance racing; rather, it collects a share of gaming revenues from bingo halls, which should be redirected to the industry. However, for years, those funds have not been fully allocated, as evidenced by the deteriorating condition of La Plata’s facilities and its unsustainable purse structure.

The administration further noted that it agreed to create a new fund—involving all racing participants—to cover additional medical expenses incurred by directing jockeys to private hospitals. However, this proposal was rejected.

According to Turf Diario, the plan required owners to contribute a portion of their purse earnings toward the fund. Unsurprisingly, ownership groups flatly refused, arguing that such costs fall under the racetrack’s legal responsibilities, as explicitly stated in Article 22:

"Official racetracks in the Province of Buenos Aires shall assume responsibility for any liabilities arising from accidents occurring during races or training sessions within their premises, and must secure the necessary insurance policies to cover such incidents."

Given the current impasse, the fate of Tuesday’s race day remains uncertain. Many owners have already begun exploring alternative training locations, frustrated by the ongoing cancellations, poor track conditions, and declining horse population—all of which have resulted in weaker fields and fewer outside entries from Argentina’s premier circuits.