In keeping with its practice and policy, The Fort Erie Live Racing Consortium, a local community corporation operating the Fort Erie Race Track for the past 16 years, has directed staff to move forward with planning for racing in the new year – 2026/27 season – much similar to this past 2025 season.
While contract negotiations are still ongoing with various stakeholders, including Ontario Racing, Ontario Lottery and Gaming, and the Province of Ontario, all signs are pointing towards a fullsome season of racing next year.
“The province has been a good partner these past seven years, and with more than 10 years still remaining in the province’s 19-year commitment to the horse racing industry, we should continue to enjoy a good working relationship that encourages a strong and healthy horse racing industry into the future, commensurate with their funding commitments,” said FELRC’s CEO, Jim Thibert.
As one of the keystones of Niagara’s critical summer tourism industry, Fort Erie Race Track plays a vital role in attracting visitors to the town during the racing season. As such, Fort Erie Town Hall has repeatedly expressed the importance of maintaining a healthy horse racing track in town to support the local tourism sector.
“The Destination Niagara initiative, which has our unwavering support, envisions a comprehensive tourism experience, beyond the traditional focus on Niagara Falls, that offers unique attractions, including Fort Erie Race Track,” said Fort Erie mayor Wayne Redekop.
With more than 125 employees, several hundred horsepeople and nearly 300 indirect jobs supported in the tariff-free local horse racing industry, Fort Erie Race Track is a very significant economic engine that drives the town’s summer tourism season.
In 2024 alone, the track saw $42.5 million in total wagering – the second-highest in FELRC history – underscoring its robust appeal to racing enthusiasts from across North America. This activity translates into direct economic benefits, including over $8.5 million in direct spending and contributions to the local gross domestic product, as highlighted in the track’s recent Corporate Responsibility Report.
Events like Fort Foodie Fest also helped funnel more than 300 pounds of donations to local food banks, while other sponsored fundraisers at the track helped bring thousands of dollars worth of donations to various local charities, including Strong Fort Erie Neighbourhoods, Ontario Residential School Survivors, and the Community Outreach Program of Fort Erie.
Beyond the numbers, the track fosters a ripple effect through secondary impacts, such as support for local suppliers, veterinarians, farriers, and hospitality businesses, adding millions more to the regional economy. Off season capital investments in the track, such as new pavement for parking lots, a new roof for the grandstands, and a new tote board, also supported numerous local tradesmen and contractors who worked hard to get the track looking sharp ahead of this year’s milestone 90th running of the Prince of Wales Stakes.
“Fort Erie Race Track is more than a venue for horse racing; it’s the heartbeat of our local economy and a beacon for tourists seeking authentic Canadian experiences,” said Thibert. “As we prepare for next season, we’re committed to building on our legacy, and delivering unforgettable events that benefit everyone in Fort Erie.”
Fort Erie Race Track and its employees look forward to welcoming back race fans, horse people, and tourists in the spring for the kickoff to its 129th season of live racing.
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