Linter (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The 19th International Fighting Chicken Show in Linter, Belgium, was cancelled due to bird flu outbreaks. About 50 exhibitors planned to show 400 chickens. Organisers prioritised safety and promised a future edition.
The International Fighting Chicken Show takes place every year in Linter, Belgium. This event attracts chicken lovers from Belgium and other countries. Authorities say people come to see a special breed of chicken originally bred for fighting. They also mention that even though cockfighting is against the law, the show focuses on the chickens’ appearance and family history.
Will the international Fighting Chicken show return after bird flu cancellation?
Due to bird flu outbreaks in other bird events, the authorities cancelled the show. Bird flu is a deadly virus that spreads very easily among birds. It can be passed through contact with sick birds or dirty places. To stop the virus from spreading, officials have banned large gatherings of birds like the one in Linter.
Officials mentioned that if bird flu spreads, it could affect the poultry industry. They mentioned that the cancellation shows how events can be affected by animal health issues. It reminds everyone to stay careful and follow safety rules to prevent outbreaks.
One organiser said,
“Bird flu spreads easily. We decided to cancel our show.”
They worried that bringing many birds together could spread the virus. Even though they were excited, but said that safety was more important. It was necessary to protect the birds and their handlers.
The organiser added,
“We cannot guarantee safety right now.”
According to the officials, all the plans for the 19th edition of the event were ready. The team worked all day on Friday, January 31, 2025, to prepare. They set up the venue and made sure everything was in place. About 50 exhibitors were coming with their 400 prized fighting cocks from Belgium and other countries. Despite this, the decision to cancel was made at the last moment.
One organiser said,
“This is bad news for the 50 exhibitors and the visitors.”
Officials mentioned that there is still some hope in the community. The organisers said this is just a delay, not a full cancellation. They promised,
“There will be a new edition, but we don’t know when yet.”
