The horse racing industry in the U.S. heavily relies on immigrant labor, particularly on the backside of racetracks where workers, often without legal status, care for thoroughbreds. With horse racing generating approximately $36 billion in 2023 and supporting nearly half a million jobs, trainers emphasize that without this workforce, the industry would struggle to function. The reliance on H-2B visas is significant, but many workers remain undocumented, raising concerns about potential immigration enforcement actions.

During the Trump administration, the industry experienced a temporary reprieve from immigration raids, but the current climate suggests a shift towards stricter enforcement. Industry leaders express anxiety over the possibility of increased raids, which could disrupt operations and exacerbate existing labor shortages. Despite the industry’s economic contributions, there is uncertainty about whether it will be shielded from aggressive immigration policies.

As the labor market tightens, trainers report difficulties in finding domestic workers willing to undertake the demanding early hours required in horse care. The situation is compounded by better-paying opportunities in other sectors, leading to a potential crisis in workforce availability. Legal experts are working with immigrant workers to navigate visa processes, but many remain in precarious situations, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the industry.