FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) — The California Association of Racing Fairs (CARF) announced on Tuesday it will not apply for racing dates in 2025.

The unanimous decision could affect several summer fair meets, including The Big Fresno Fair, as well as the Cal Expo at the California State Fair, Ferndale at the Humboldt County Fair, and Alameda County Fair.

“After making the difficult decision not to submit future race meet applications, the California Authority of Racing Fairs (CARF) announces that it has directed staff to reorganize operations to focus on addressing current obligations and future efforts to support California Fairgrounds and their Satellite Network,” CARF said in a news release.

This difficult decision was based upon an assessment of financial challenges incurred in the GSR race meet as well as current obstacles facing the horse racing industry.

Individual tracks have the option to apply for a racing license independently.

The Fresno Fair management and the board are gathering information to determine its options for this year’s fair.

“Horse racing has been a staple at The Big Fresno Fair for more than 120 years,” said Big Fresno Fair CEO Christina Estrada. “The Big Fresno Fair Board and Management do not want to see that change – and we believe our Central Valley community reflects that same sentiment.”

The viability of horse racing in California, and more specifically Northern California has been the subject of much discussion.