Christophe Ameeuw announced on Jan. 30 that this year’s Longines Masters of Hong Kong, slated for Feb. 14-16, will not take place. This decision is a precautionary measure following the recent developments in the 2019-nCoV coronavirus outbreak, which is currently affecting the city of Hong Kong, mainland China and the Asia-Pacific region.

“With more than 35,000 people expected from Hong Kong, Asia and around the world, the safety of our audience, athletes, visitors, exhibitors, service providers, internal teams, as well as that of the horses taking part in the events of the Longines Masters Series, is an absolute priority,” said Ameeuw, founder and president of European Equestrian Masters. “Considering the uncertainty surrounding the 2019-nCoV coronavirus outbreak, and in order to guarantee the welfare of our guests, partners and stakeholders, it is without hesitation that we decided not to hold the event from 14-16 February 2020. Our loyal partners, which include Longines, the Hong Kong Jockey Club, the Hong Kong Equestrian Federation, DBS Bank, Hong Kong International Airport, AsiaWorld-Expo, the Hong Kong Tourism Office and TVB Pearl, who have already been informed, showed their understanding and support.”