The California Association of Racing Fairs has decided not to renew applications for 2025 racing licenses for summer fair meets, impacting several fairs including the Big Fresno Fair. Despite horse racing being a staple at the fair for over 120 years, the decision was made due to financial challenges and obstacles facing the horse racing industry in California.

The Big Fresno Fair leadership is exploring options following the decision, with CEO Christina Estrada expressing a desire to keep horse racing as part of the fair’s tradition. The decision was not solely based on recent horse deaths at the Fresno Fairgrounds, but rather on the overall financial challenges and obstacles facing the industry.

Horse racing in California has faced scrutiny due to horse deaths and low revenues, leading to the decision to not renew applications for racing licenses. While satellite wagering on racing from other tracks will continue, the future of horse racing at the Big Fresno Fair and other fairs remains uncertain as the industry reorganizes operations.