There will be no horse racing at the 2025 Big Fresno Fair.

The decision from The Big Fresno Fair leadership to not pursue its own racing license comes after the California Association of Racing Fairs decided it wouldn’t for the four fairs it oversees, they said in a Wednesday news release.

The California Association of Racing Fairs oversees Alameda County Fair, California State Fair, Humboldt County Fair and The Big Fresno Fair.

The postponement allows for a look into the future viability of the sport, the release stated.

“This tough decision was made with careful consideration for the long-term economic health of The Big Fresno Fair,” said Christina Estrada, CEO of The Big Fresno Fair. “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 said they would look at for other entertainment for the grandstand.

Related Story: Live Horse Racing Out for 2025 Big Fresno Fair

Big Fresno Fair to See if Horse Racing Viable in the Future

Horse racing at the Fresno Fairgrounds dates back to 1883, but shifts in the business model have brought significant issues to the industry.

Horse deaths at California tracks — including the one at The Big Fresno Fair — cast a pall over the sport.

Combined with declining revenue, these issues led the racing association to forgo renewing its gaming license for 2025.

Meanwhile, Golden Gate Fields near Berkeley shut down in June 2024, forcing year-round racing to relocate to the Alameda County Fairgrounds. Last month, the association also opted to end stabling and training at that facility.

The fair’s release stated these changes have made it difficult to ensure a “high-quality racing program,” necessitating a decision if horse racing is viable in Fresno’s future.