The ongoing dispute between the New York Racing Association (NYRA) and TwinSpires has resulted in both parties removing content from their respective betting platforms. The conflict revolves around a fee increase that NYRA is seeking for providing its signal, specifically a 1% source market fee for horse bets on races in New York. This fee hike comes as a response to the economic impact of the pandemic on horse racing in the state.
As a result of the disagreement, TwinSpires, owned by Churchill Downs Incorporated, has removed all NYRA content from its advanced deposit wagering (ADW) platform. In retaliation, NYRABets has taken out all content related to CDI racetracks. This means that sportsbooks or tracks owned by CDI can no longer simulcast racing at Saratoga, and viewers cannot watch or bet on races from Ellis Park, Presque Isle, Ocean Downs, Louisiana Downs, and Colonial Downs if they are at Saratoga.
While other ADW platforms have agreed to add the source market fee to their existing agreements, CDI has refused to comply. NYRA CEO David O’Rourke believes this decision is detrimental to the state’s horse racing industry. CDI CEO Bill Carstanjen has criticized NYRA’s approach, stating that the fee increase lacks additional value for their services.
Despite the conflict, Carstanjen remains optimistic about reaching a resolution that benefits the horse racing sector. He expressed concern that the NYRA’s approach is damaging to horse racing and its fans. TwinSpires, which handled approximately $150 million in wagers for NYRA tracks last year, hopes for a quick and amicable solution to the dispute.
This dispute follows a similar issue between NYRA and FanDuel earlier this month, which was resolved in time for the start of the recent Saratoga meeting. The disagreement between NYRA and TwinSpires highlights the challenges faced by the horse racing industry, particularly in the wake of the pandemic’s economic impact. Both parties are working to find a resolution that ensures the continued success and sustainability of horse racing in New York.