Overview
- Ruidoso Downs will not stage races at its current site in 2026 after officials determined continued operations are not feasible.
- An engineering firm retained by the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management found that even moderate storms could overwhelm drainage and create life-threatening conditions.
- Owner Johnny Trotter, General Manager Rick Baugh, and Mayor Lynn Crawford were told in Santa Fe the venue is not sustainable now or for many years.
- The Downs at Albuquerque will host the full 2026 race schedule, while the Billy the Kid Casino and scheduled sales at the Ruidoso Downs pavilion will continue.
- Local leaders described the decision as heartbreaking and are targeting a possible return by Memorial Day 2027, dependent on recovery and mitigation progress.