Churchill Downs is in the process of making major changes to its facilities, including removing parts of existing infrastructure to create space for a new 500-seat cabana. This cabana will give fans a place to sit and enjoy races without worrying about the weather during big events. The cabana is just one part of a larger transformation in the infield area, which is being updated to improve the fan experience for next year's Kentucky Derby.
Alongside the cabana, the track's first turn is being flattened to build a sponsored concert stage. This change will introduce a new form of entertainment to the Kentucky Derby. The event will become more appealing because of it. The infield area will also see the expansion of the Homestretch Club. This club offers a premium setting for fans who want a more luxurious experience. The larger 'Victory Run' project will connect the First Turn with the Clubhouse. It is still in progress but not expected to be completed until 2028. Crews are working to improve the flow around the track.
Preakness Track Changes
Work on the Preakness track is already underway. Crews are demolishing the Old Hilltop area to build a new facility. Officials have plans to use temporary hospitality structures next spring. These structures will host 20,000 fans at the Preakness. The goal is to bring back the event's prestige. This is while the bigger project continues. The effort is part of a broader plan to restore the Preakness to its former glory by 2027.
The Preakness is considered one of the most iconic races in American horse racing, and bringing it back to Baltimore is seen as vital for reclaiming its status. Organizers have called the strategy "bold," but its success will depend on how well the temporary setups and new venue are received. The urgency is clear after the recent low attendance at Laurel Park, where only 4,800 fans attended the second leg of the Triple Crown.
Churchill Downs Portfolio Shifts
While the construction projects are in full swing, Churchill Downs is also reducing its portfolio. It is selling eight non-core gaming properties. The only track among these that still hosts thoroughbred racing is Presque Isle Downs in Pennsylvania. The rest of the properties will no longer be part of the company's long-term plans. These include Ocean Downs in Maryland, Calder Casino in Florida, and del Lago Resort in New York. Other properties being sold include locations in Indiana, Iowa, Maine, and Mississippi.
The decision to sell these properties came after a recent conflict between Churchill Downs and Louisiana. Churchill Downs had threatened to end horse racing at the Fair Grounds. Louisiana ultimately won the negotiation. The state secured the right to send its top horse to the Kentucky Derby. While horse racing in Louisiana is safe for now, the sale of other properties suggests Churchill Downs is focusing its resources. It is focusing on its most profitable operations. This move could reshape the landscape of horse racing. It is affecting several states that are now losing key venues.
Broadcasting Expansions
In the realm of broadcasting, Fox is stepping in to expand its coverage of horse racing. Starting in 2027, the network will include Del Mar in its portfolio of horse racing properties, adding to its existing coverage of NYRA tracks and Oaklawn. This move is part of a broader effort to fill the void left by the closure of TVG. In the meantime, Fox will preview its new coverage with a broadcast of the $1 million Pacific Classic on August 22, hosted on FS1. With tracks in Maryland, Florida, and Kentucky still needing broadcasting partners, it remains to be seen whether Fox will fully commit to horse racing as part of its long-term strategy.
Beyond the major projects, Churchill Downs is also involved in a significant decision regarding the future of horse racing in Louisiana. The company had previously threatened to stop racing at the historic Fair Grounds, but Louisiana won the negotiation, ensuring that horse racing in the state will continue. This outcome highlights the complex relationship between racing authorities and the companies that operate the tracks, as they negotiate terms that affect the sport's future.
As the future of horse racing takes shape with new venues, broadcasting partnerships, and strategic partnerships, fans and industry insiders are keeping a close eye on how these developments will impact the sport.
With these significant changes underway, the coming years will be crucial for the sport as it adapts to new challenges and opportunities. From the physical changes at tracks to the evolving media landscape, the future of horse racing is being reshaped by decisions made today that will have lasting effects for years to come.
