Churchill Downs Inc. (CDI), owner of Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots in New Orleans, has reached an agreement with Louisiana horsemen to continue racing at the historic track from late November through March, pending approval from the Louisiana Racing Commission. This agreement comes after uncertainty caused by a Louisiana Supreme Court ruling that struck down the statute authorizing historical horse racing (HHR) gaming without local voter approval, which threatened nearly half of Fair Grounds’ off-track betting revenue. While recent state legislation expands video poker machines and introduces fixed odds wagering to support purses, CDI expressed concerns that these measures may cannibalize revenue from their off-track betting network.

The agreement follows productive discussions involving CDI, the Louisiana Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, and state officials, alongside protective actions by the New Orleans City Council and state lawmakers to preserve the racetrack as a historic site. Despite anticipated slight decreases in purses, horsemen remain optimistic about maintaining competitive racing conditions. The deal and legislative protections underscore a commitment by stakeholders and political leaders to sustain horse racing’s future in New Orleans, balancing financial challenges with efforts to safeguard the Fair Grounds’ legacy.