Gulfstream Park Controversy: Aidan Butler Addresses Decoupling and Future of Racing

Gulfstream Park Controversy: Aidan Butler Addresses Decoupling and Future of Racing

The Stronach Group, owner of 1/ST, has sparked intense debate following its proposal to guarantee at least three more years of racing at Gulfstream Park if Florida lawmakers approve the decoupling of its Thoroughbred racing and casino licenses. If the legislative approval is not granted, the group hinted that the track’s future could face uncertainty, potentially ending sooner than 2028.

This proposal, and subsequent public reaction, prompted Aidan Butler, president of racetrack owner 1/ST, to address the matter during an appearance on the Nick Luck Daily podcast. The comments followed a statement made by Stronach advisor Keith Brackpool during a meeting with horsemen at Gulfstream Park, which many perceived as a warning that the track could close. Butler, however, pushed back on that interpretation.

Butler asserted that the notion of Gulfstream Park closing imminently or by 2028 was misrepresented. “The idea that the track would close at the end of 2028 has never been said,” Butler emphasized. He clarified that Brackpool’s statement was intended to assure breeders and horsemen that racing at Gulfstream Park would continue for at least three more years if decoupling is approved.

“This was a way to give assurance to the breeders because it wasn’t part of the original agreement we had with the horsemen,” Butler explained, adding that 1/ST has always prioritized collaboration with stakeholders when determining the future of its properties.

Decoupling, a legislative measure that would separate the requirement to operate Thoroughbred racing from casino licenses, has long been a point of contention in Florida. The Florida Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (FTHA) recently agreed to support 1/ST’s efforts to seek approval for decoupling. Advocates argue it would allow racetracks to operate more efficiently and remain financially viable, while critics fear it could signal the beginning of the end for some tracks.

Butler acknowledged that the Stronach family must weigh a range of factors, including property performance, when determining the future of Gulfstream Park. He stressed that there has been no definitive decision to close the track. Instead, the comments were meant to initiate a broader conversation about the future of racing in Florida.

“As much as we are a racing and gaming company, we have to consider every aspect of what we do,” Butler said. “If we’re going to have a conversation about the future, we need to work together to determine where racing in Florida can thrive for the long term.”

Butler highlighted the challenges Gulfstream Park faces due to its location in a densely populated, high-value area. This situation is similar to that of Santa Anita Park, another track owned by 1/ST, but distinct from tracks like Keeneland or Del Mar, which operate under more protected or state-owned structures.

“If you could take your time now, wouldn’t it be wise… to be thoughtful not only for ourselves but for the sport of horse racing in Florida?” Butler asked. He hinted that 1/ST is considering various options to ensure the sustainability of racing in the state, including exploring alternative locations for racing.

As an example of stakeholder collaboration, Butler pointed to Maryland, where 1/ST transferred ownership of Pimlico Race Course to the state. While the track undergoes renovations, racing has continued at Laurel Park, which 1/ST plans to sell once Pimlico reopens.

“We’re open to always having conversations with all interested parties,” Butler said. “Our intent, and the best thing for us, is if horse racing can and will continue, then we’d love it to continue.”

The controversy underscores the complexities of balancing the interests of horsemen, breeders, and racetrack owners in a challenging economic and regulatory environment. Gulfstream Park, with its storied history and iconic status in Florida racing, remains a focal point of these discussions.

For now, the future of Gulfstream Park hinges on whether the Florida legislature approves the decoupling proposal. While the Stronach Group has pledged to keep the track running for at least three more years under the right conditions, the ultimate fate of Gulfstream Park—and Florida horse racing as a whole—will depend on the ability of stakeholders to work together to find a sustainable path forward.

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"I pray 🙏 there will always be Horse Racing at Gulfstream. I love going to the 🐎 races."
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