Bally's Cheyenne Park Opening Delayed Until 2027

The Wyoming Gaming Commission and Bally's Wyoming jointly announce that the inaugural live horse racing meet at Bally's Cheyenne Park, previously scheduled for October 2026, will now take place in 2027. This collaborative decision follows careful consideration of the work remaining at the facility and reflects the shared commitment of the commission and Bally's to deliver a high-quality racing and guest experience from Day 1. Both organizations agree that providing additional time to complete construction, testing, inspections and operational preparations will best position Bally's Cheyenne Park for a successful inaugural meet and support the continued growth of Wyoming's racing industry. Since acquiring the project, formerly known as Thunder Plains Park, Bally's has made significant progress in advancing the development of Bally's Cheyenne Park. This work represents a substantial commitment to the facility, the Cheyenne community, and the future of live horse racing in Wyoming. The Wyoming Gaming Commission recognizes the improvements already completed and Bally's continued cooperation and partnership throughout the development and regulatory review process. "Safety must remain the foundation of live horse racing in Wyoming," Wyoming Gaming Commission executive director Nicholas Larramendy said. "The commission recognizes the significant progress Bally's has made since acquiring this project and appreciates the company's continued investment and willingness to work cooperatively with commission staff and industry participants. Moving the inaugural meet provides the additional time necessary to ensure the facility meets applicable regulatory and safety requirements before racing begins." Bally's remains committed to the completion and long-term success of Bally's Cheyenne Park. The additional time will allow Bally's to build upon the progress already made and continue developing the property into a premier racing destination—one that serves Wyoming's horse racing community and attracts participants and fans from throughout the region. "Bally's and the commission share the goal of creating a racing experience that meets the expectations of Wyoming's racing community, participants and fans. The progress at Bally's Cheyenne Park builds upon a strong foundation already in place, including the existing 1-mile oval, barns, and other key infrastructure," Bally's Wyoming general manager Kerry Smith said. "We are proud of the significant progress that has been made since Bally's acquired this project and throughout the company's continued investment. Moving the inaugural meet provides the time necessary to complete the remaining work and ensure Bally's Cheyenne Park is positioned to deliver the quality racing experience everyone expects." The Wyoming Gaming Commission and Bally's will continue working closely together throughout the development and regulatory review process. A future racing schedule will be considered at this year's annual fall meeting, taking place Nov. 19 and 20 in Casper, Wyo. Additional information regarding the continued development of Bally's Cheyenne Park and future racing dates will be released as it becomes available.