Ruidoso Downs Race Track Won’t Host Live Racing in 2026 After Devastating Flood Damage

For the second year in a row, historic horse racing at Ruidoso Downs in southern New Mexico has been disrupted, and now there will be no live racing at the iconic Ruidoso Downs Race Track in 2026. Severe flooding in recent years has repeatedly damaged the track’s infrastructure, and officials say it cannot be adequately protected from future floods, prompting the cancellation of the 2026 racing meet and relocation of events to other venues.

Why the Track Isn’t Hosting Races in 2026

In short, the track is unsafe for people and for horses due to flood damage.

From an announcementmade in an official statement by Mayor Lynn Crawford:

It is with deep disappointment that I must announce that Ruidoso Downs Race Track will not be able to host the 2026 racing season. The devastating flood events of 2025 caused significant damage to critical track infrastructure, and despite the tireless efforts of repair crews and stakeholders.

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Recent Flood Damage and Track History

Ruidoso Downs has suffered substantial damage in multiple flood events. Historic flooding in July 2025 inundated the track and surrounding property after heavy rains in the nearby mountains caused the Rio Ruidoso to swell rapidly, forcing cancellation of the 2025 season. The track had only reopened earlier in 2025 after previous flood and wildfire impacts, but was overwhelmed yet again.

Relocation of Major Races

According to the statement made by the mayor, "The 2026 meet will be run at the Downs at Albuquerque, and the 2026 New Mexico Bred Sale and the 2026 Super Select Sale will still be held at the Ruidoso Downs Sales Pavilion. The Billy the Kid Casino will also be operational during this time."

Is This The End of This Racetrack?

Quite possibly. This page seems to think so: