Churchill Downs steeps in racing history as Louisville’s iconic track, hosting the Derby since 1875 and shaping the sport’s modern era.
The Triple Crown is reshaped as the Preakness moves to late May, Belmont to June, and a new 3-year-old championship series is introduced. The changes aim to bolster participation and viewership but may end the streak of a 2027 Triple Crown winner.
Belmont Park has reopened after a multi-year rebuild funded by a $455 million state loan and $100 million from NYRA. The redesigned complex is smaller but state-of-the-art, featuring a Tapeta track for winter racing, two new turf courses, a larger paddock, and expanded green space. Officials say the project aims to attract new crowds and sustain horse racing amid a changing betting landscape.