The British Columbia horse racing industry was rocked on Thursday afternoon when the B.C. government informed Horseracing BC that, effective January 31, 2026, it will cease all slot-funding revenue to the horse racing industry.
A letter from Nina Krieger, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General of British Columbia and a member of the New Democratic Party (email – Nina.Krieger.MLA@leg.bc.ca) that was posted on November 28th noted that “significant concerns” with regards to racing’s sustainability led to the decision.
Earlier this year, Great Canadian Entertainment, the owner of the track and casino, sold the casino to the Tsliel-Waututh Nation (still subject to “customary closing condition and approvals”).
The Fraser Downs Racetrack in Surrey, British Columbia, was closed permanently in August 2025 after the City of Surrey terminated the lease for the land to make way for redevelopment.
Horse racing in BC dates back to 1848 when Beacon Hill Park was the first racetrack built. Hastings Racecourse opened in 1889. There are other, smaller tracks that have had Thoroughbred racing in the Interior.
Nina Krieger, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General of British Columbia
An emergency meeting of the BC HBPA was to be held on November 27th and made this comment in a letter:
“Until we have hard facts to relay to HBPA members, there will be no speculation as to what comes next although clearly, this latest news is as serious as it was unexpected.
“We know this announcement will cause shock, anger, and uncertainty. We share those feelings. But we also know the strength and resilience of the people who make up this industry and we will keep you informed frequently as we assess next steps and chart a course forward.”
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