Love Island’s Chris Hughes has spoken out about the dress code changing at Aintree’s Grand National Festival this year.
The Jockey Club issued a dress code update for those attending the 2023 Grand National earlier this year. The announcement confirmed that dress codes would no longer be in place at any of The Jockey Club's 15 racecourses - including Aintree.
The removal of dress codes comes as The Jockey Club aims to make events more comfortable and accessible for racegoers. The only exceptions to the policy are offensive fancy dress outfits or offensive clothing of any kind and replica sports shirts.
READ MORE: Mum who started at Greatie Market now dresses city for Grand National
Reality star Chris Hughes shared his opinion on the decision at Aintree today. He said: “Yeah I think they probably just eased the dress code just to kind of make racing more accessible to everybody, I presume.”
He added: “I don’t really have an opinion on it either way, I know some people do, but I think in terms of these big meetings, these big festivals, I think people want to get dressed up anyway. Especially men, you know girls always do but I think even the blokes like, they want to put a suit on. I don’t think it changes much at all to be honest with you.
“I can see that from Cheltenham, obviously this regulation came in just before the Cheltenham Festival and it didn’t really change anything to be honest.”
Announcing the changing dress code, a statement issued by The Jockey Club's Chief Executive, Nevin Truesdale read: "We are encouraging you to dress as you feel most comfortable and confident on racedays, as part of our commitment to make the sport as accessible and inclusive as possible and in line with the large majority of other sports.
"Of course, that does not mean we are discouraging you from wearing your favourite suit or dress or reaching for the most glamorous item of clothing for a day at the races if you wish.
"We are just keen to ensure that your enjoyment is not impacted by whether you can only stand or sit in a certain place based on your choice of clothing. All we do suggest is that you bear in mind the good old British weather when picking your outfit!" You can find out more information about the dress code update here.
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