Yonkers Raceway has officially launched its 127th racing season, unveiling a 2026 calendar that features 236 race days—the most of any racetrack in the United States. Fans can enjoy live harness racing five nights a week at the iconic half‑mile oval, where more than 80 horses compete under the lights each evening.
Season Highlights
The 2026 program includes the opening rounds of the Blue Chip Matchmaker Series and the MGM Borgata Pacing Series, culminating in the Borgata Final on Friday, May 8. The prestigious MGM Yonkers Trot returns on Friday, June 26, followed by the season’s marquee event: the MGM International Trot and New York Sire Stakes Day of Champions on Saturday, September 12.
With over $50 million in purses scheduled for the year, Yonkers Raceway continues to lead the nation in purse distribution.
New Features for 2026
This season introduces two key changes designed to enhance the racing product:
- Earlier Saturday post time of 3:30 p.m.
- A new rule prohibiting 30‑second second quarters, aimed at improving race flow and competitiveness.
A Venue Steeped in History
Since opening in 1899 as Empire City Racetrack, Yonkers Raceway has welcomed generations of notable visitors—from Frank Sinatra and Ed Sullivan to Presidents Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan, and sports legends like Mickey Mantle.
The track even hosted the famed thoroughbred Seabiscuit, who won the Scarsdale Handicap here during the venue’s brief foray into thoroughbred racing in the 1930s.
More recently, the Raceway has drawn modern stars such as former UFC Lightweight Champion Charles Oliveira, who defeated Hall of Fame driver Tim Tetrick in an exhibition race, and three‑time NBA MVP Nikola Jokić, a devoted harness racing fan who made a surprise visit.
Commitment to Excellence
“Across generations, fans have come to Yonkers Raceway for world‑class harness racing and the thrill of elite competition,” said Jonathan “Joe” Frasure Jr., race secretary at Yonkers Raceway at Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts. “By offering the richest purses in the country, we continue to attract top drivers, trainers, and owners. Our new in‑house rule and earlier Saturday post time reflect our ongoing commitment to delivering a stronger racing product for participants and fans alike.”
Modernization and Investment
Since MGM Resorts acquired Empire City Casino and Yonkers Raceway in 2019, the property has undergone more than $1 million in upgrades, including:
- Resurfacing the track with 6,000+ tons of recycled material
- Enhancements to the horse paddock
- Installation of state‑of‑the‑art LED lighting
- A new multi‑display LED infield tote board to elevate the race‑day experience
With its blend of history, investment, and top‑tier racing, Yonkers Raceway enters its 127th season as one of the sport’s premier destinations.
