Horseracing has been postponed at the Big Fresno Fair this year. 

The Big Fresno Fair announced Wednesday that it has decided to postpone horse racing given uncertainty around the sport in California. 

The backstory: Last month the California Authority of Racing Fairs (CARF) decided to not submit future race meet applications for the summer. 

• Financial challenges from the recent Golden State Racing meet in Pleasanton and other obstacles – likely including the number of injuries at race tracks that have led to horses being euthanized – fueled the decision to hold off on the applications. 

What we’re watching: The decision to postpone horse racing for 2025 may not spell a permanent end for the popular fixture, which dates back to 1883 at the Fresno Fairgrounds. 

• The fair said that the decision to postpone allows for continued analysis to assess the viability of horse racing at the fair long-term. 

What she’s saying: “This tough decision was made with careful consideration for the long-term economic health of The Big Fresno Fair,” said fair CEO Christina Estrada. “It is a necessary step to fully evaluate the future of a successful horse race meet in Fresno, which is one aspect of our annual event that serves our community – both at Fair-time and year-round.” 

• Estrada added, “We remain committed to exploring all options in an ever-evolving industry situation, and will continue working closely with industry leaders to assess potential paths forward. In the meantime, The Big Fresno Fair is determining alternate entertainment options in the Grandstand for our community to enjoy.”