As Thoroughbred racing enters 2026, industry leaders express cautious optimism about the sport’s growth, highlighting efforts to attract new fans, owners, and breeders. Oaklawn Park’s Louis Cella credits their success to fan-centric programs like reduced wagering takeouts and rewarding hospitality, which have boosted attendance and participation. NYRA TV analyst Acacia Courtney-Clement emphasizes making ownership more accessible through syndicates and partnerships, while Jockey Club Chair Everett Dobson points to favorable tax changes and record-setting sales as drivers of increased investment. Social media influencer Griffin Johnson stresses the importance of storytelling and transparency to engage a broader, younger audience.

Other voices, including TOBA President Dan Metzger and NTRA CEO Tom Rooney, underscore the need for centralized, long-term marketing strategies and adapting to new wagering trends like fixed odds to sustain momentum. They note the sport’s appeal to younger demographics at major events and the potential to expand through online wagering platforms. Collectively, these perspectives reveal a shared commitment to innovation, accessibility, and community-building as keys to growing Thoroughbred racing’s fan base and ownership ranks in the coming year.