Crufts 2021 will now take place between 15 July and 18 July 2021 at the NEC Birmingham, after it was initially set to take place next March of next year.
The event, which will celebrate its 130th anniversary in 2021, was due to take place between 11 and 14 March 2021, but the Kennel Club noted it was “looking very unlikely that Crufts in March was a foreseeable option”.
It added that the decision to postpone the event was made after “lengthy discussions”, adding that a July date would “hopefully be more viable”. Changes to the show will still be implemented to ensure there is more space for distanced exhibitions.
Vanessa McAlpine, show manager, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be able to look forward to a special summer Crufts Dog Show taking place next year and are thankful to the NEC for being flexible in finding us an alternative date and of course all our sponsors, judges, exhibitors and trade stands for their continued support.
“There is optimism in the events industry as to the likelihood of summer events taking place with the new Crufts dates falling in a fortnight when hopefully some of our great British summer sporting events will also be returning.”
She added: “We know there are going to be many challenges and will need to remain adaptable to how the show will look as our priority is to not only the dogs, but our exhibitors and visitors whose welfare will always be at the forefront.
“We will continue to review the situation over the coming months and will adapt our plans as appropriate, however we are very excited to be able to plan for ‘Crufts in the summer’ to celebrate our wonderful dogs and to give our dog loving community something to look forward to next year.”
The Kennel Club added that it is hoped that Crufts 2022 will take place as normal on the 10 – 13 March 2022.
