Manny Franco tests positive for COVID, off mounts until Sunday

Jockey Manuel Franco tested positive for COVID on Tuesday and will remain off his mounts until Sunday the New York Racing Association announced Wednesday.

All members of the NYRA jockey colony are vaccinated and adhere to established protocols. In addition, the jockey quarters at Aqueduct have been substantially altered to provide maximum physical distancing and reduce density.

Franco has not experienced symptoms and was proactively tested because of standard contact tracing following the positive tests of jockeys Jorge Vargas Jr. and Jalon Samuel on Friday, Dec. 31.

Vargas and Samuel will be permitted to ride Thursday at Aqueduct provided they are asymptomatic following five days in isolation.

NYRA follows the most updated federal and state guidance regarding contact tracing, testing, required isolation, and quarantine. Accordingly, Franco will be permitted to return to competition on Sunday should he remain asymptomatic.

In accordance with New York City requirements, anyone seeking to enter Aqueduct Racetrack in any capacity must demonstrate proof of COVID vaccination. Facemasks are always required on NYRA property.

Live racing resumes Thursday at the Big A with an eight-race card. First post is 12:50 p.m. EST.