The Chantilly horserace track near Paris, home of the French derby, may be forced to close this year and the Maisons-Laffitte course will definitely be shut next year, France's racing authorities decided.


The committee of the GIE Galop, French horse racing's ruling board, voted Wednesday to shut down Maisons-Laffitte in 1995 and 9-3 in favor of closing Chantilly this year as economy measures. Chantilly's case is to be reconsidered, but it is widely expected it will close.


Chantilly, sometimes called the Royal Ascot of France, is noted for its elegant surrounds and clientele. But the venue is showing signs of age, no longer meets safety regulations.