Horse racing, at least for now, isn’t in the Big Fresno Fair’s future.

The California Association of Racing Fairs voted not to renew applications for 2025 racing licenses for summer fair meets, according to a news release from the organization.

The decision impacts the Alameda County Fair, the Big Fresno Fair, Cal Expo at the California State Fair, and Ferndale at the Humboldt County Fair, according to Thoroughbred Daily News. Individual tracks can independently apply for a racing license.

Big Fresno Fair leadership said they are exploring options.

“Horse racing has been a staple at The Big Fresno Fair for more than 120 years. 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,” said Christina Estrada, CEO of the fair in a statement.

“The viability of horse racing in California, and more specifically Northern California, has been the subject of much discussion. Based on today’s decision by the California Authority of Racing Fairs, we are examining the details and exploring our options. You can be confident that the fair will keep the community updated.”

Horse Racing Plagued by Low Revenues, Bad Optics

Horse racing, especially in California, has come under increasing scrutiny with horse deaths, including at the Fresno Fairgrounds. Leading up to the October 2024 fair and during it, three horses had to be put down. One horse died of pneumonia, two others died of racing-related injuries.

The release did not state that horse deaths specifically spurred the decision to not renew applications.

“This difficult decision was based upon an assessment of financial challenges incurred in the (Golden State Racing) race meet as well as current obstacles facing the horse racing industry,” the release stated.

Satellite wagering on racing from other tracks would continue as the group reorganizes operations.