New York Racing Association reported that the 2026 Saratoga summer meet generated $900 million in wagers, an increase of $115 million over the previous year, while paid attendance slipped slightly from 2025 but still exceeded one million for the second consecutive season.
The meet, which runs through Labor Day in early September, remains a major tourism driver for Saratoga Springs. Although turnstile counts fell modestly, betting activity surged, indicating strong interest from the wagering public and reinforcing the event’s role in the region’s seasonal economy.
The $115 million rise represents the largest annual jump in betting revenue recorded at the historic Saratoga Race Course since NYRA began tracking figures. The $900 million wagering pool surpasses prior summer totals and underscores the venue’s status as a premier destination for both on‑track spectators and off‑track bettors.
NYRA noted that the robust betting performance helps offset the slight attendance dip and contributes significantly to the overall economic impact of the meet. The influx of bettors and tourists supports local hotels, restaurants, and ancillary businesses that depend on the summer racing season.
As the meet approaches its final day on Labor Day, officials expect wagering to remain high, reinforcing Saratoga’s reputation as a national hub for thoroughbred racing and betting activity.