Manchester United’s match goes ahead as sport pays tribute to late Queen Elizabeth II

 Manchester United’s match goes ahead as sport pays tribute to late Queen Elizabeth II. London — British horseracing chiefs suspended all events after the death of Queen Elizabeth II was announced on Thursday as sport paid tribute to the late monarch.

Buckingham Palace made the announcement in a short statement, triggering 10 days of national mourning. Charles, Prince of Wales, becomes king immediately.

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"All of British Racing is in mourning today following the passing of Her Majesty the Queen," the British Horseracing Authority said in a statement.

Reuters

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"Her Majesty has been one of the greatest and most influential supporters in the history of horseracing. Her passion for racing and the racehorse shone brightly throughout her life".

The statement added: "It is right, therefore, that all racing is suspended for today and tomorrow as we begin to grieve Her Majesty’s passing and remember her extraordinary life and contribution to our sport and our nation."

BHA chairman Joe Saumarez Smith, said: "Racing owes an incalculable debt of gratitude, not only for Her Majesty’s dedication and commitment to the sport, but for her public advocacy of it."

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Play at the golf's PGA Championship, taking place at Wentworth near London, was immediately suspended for the rest of the day.

Cricket chiefs announced that Friday's play between England and South Africa in the third Test at the Oval would not take place as a mark of respect.

The England and Wales Cricket Board said in a statement that updates for fixtures beyond Friday would be "provided in due course".