Cal Expo Terminates Harness Racing Lease

According to a media release, the California Exposition & State Fair Board has voted to terminate its lease agreement with Watch and Wager, LLC. This decision will bring harness racing operations at Cal Expo to an end on May 2, 2025.

“This was an incredibly difficult decision,” said Tom Martinez, CEO of Cal Expo. “Harness racing has been a cherished part of our history, and we are grateful to the passionate community that has supported it over the years. However, it is our responsibility to ensure that Cal Expo remains viable and continues to serve the people of California.”

The decision was driven by rising operating costs and a shifting landscape for horse racing in California overall.

As of now, the future of harness racing in California remains uncertain