Transforming Illinois Racing: Accel Entertainment's Ambitious Plans for Fairmount Park

In a significant move that promises to revitalize the Illinois horse racing industry, the Illinois Racing Board (IRB) has approved Accel Entertainment's acquisition of FanDuel Sportsbook and Horse Racing, formerly known as Fairmount Park. The gaming company, making its first foray into the Thoroughbred industry, has outlined ambitious plans to establish a temporary casino on-site before the 2025 Kentucky Derby, followed by the construction of a permanent facility.

Unlocking a New Era of Excitement for Illinois Racing

Accel's Commitment to Elevating the Sport

Accel Entertainment, a prominent gaming company, has recognized the immense potential of the Illinois horse racing industry and is poised to make significant investments to enhance the overall experience for owners, trainers, and fans. The firm's approximate $35 million acquisition cost will be backed by an additional $85-$95 million in construction, including the development of a temporary casino and a permanent facility, as well as "modest track improvements" such as deferred maintenance, infrastructure upgrades, and enhancements to security and surveillance.Accel's General Counsel, Derek Harmer, expressed the company's enthusiasm for this venture, stating, "Now we're thrilled beyond what we originally expected, and the opportunity to be part of this industry and to partner with the state of Illinois is very exciting to us." This sentiment underscores Accel's commitment to becoming an integral part of the Illinois horse racing landscape and working closely with the state to drive the industry's growth.

Temporary Casino and Permanent Facility

Accel's plans for the Fairmount Park facility include the establishment of a temporary casino, pending further regulatory approvals, which is likely to be housed within the existing structure. This temporary casino will feature approximately 200 slot machines and four to six table games, providing an immediate boost to the on-site entertainment options. The company's long-term vision, however, is to construct a larger, permanent casino that will further enhance the overall experience for visitors.Mark Phelan, Accel's President of US Gaming, emphasized the firm's dedication to improving the quality of racing for all stakeholders, stating, "We are seeking to improve the overall quality of racing for owners, trainers, and fans in support of the Illinois horse industry and to comply with state legislation." This commitment is further underscored by Accel's pledge to guarantee a $5 million purse for the 2025 racing season, a significant investment that will undoubtedly attract top-tier talent and generate increased excitement among the racing community.

Rebranding and Revitalizing Fairmount Park

The Fairmount Park facility, which was previously rebranded from its original name, will now undergo a new transformation under Accel's ownership. While the company has not yet decided on the facility's future name, the focus will be on enhancing the overall experience and positioning the track as a premier destination for horse racing enthusiasts.Accel's acquisition of Fairmount Park represents a significant milestone for the Illinois horse racing industry, as it signals a renewed commitment to investing in the sport and providing a world-class experience for all involved. The company's plans to establish a temporary casino, construct a permanent facility, and make targeted improvements to the track's infrastructure and amenities demonstrate a comprehensive approach to revitalizing the industry and catering to the needs of owners, trainers, and fans alike.

Hawthorne Race Course: Navigating the Challenges

While the IRB and horsemen welcomed the advancement of Fairmount Park's casino plans, the report also highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by Hawthorne Race Course. Hawthorne started demolition of its grandstand shortly after racinos were authorized by the state in 2019, but construction has been on hold since then, pending financing.Hawthorne President Tim Carey acknowledged the urgency surrounding the casino's development, stating, "I know how people are eager for the casino. I know that there is urgency. I am truly empathetic with that." However, he emphasized that the process is complex, and the circumstances are what they are. Carey expressed confidence that Illinois horse racing will persevere until Hawthorne's casino is operational, underscoring the industry's resilience and the collective determination to overcome the current obstacles.The approval of Accel Entertainment's acquisition of Fairmount Park, coupled with the ongoing efforts at Hawthorne Race Course, signals a pivotal moment for the Illinois horse racing industry. As the state navigates the challenges and opportunities presented by these developments, the future holds the promise of a revitalized and thriving Thoroughbred racing landscape, one that will captivate owners, trainers, and fans alike.