LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Churchill Downs announced new plans for three projects Wednesday with big upgrades coming to the first turn of the track and the infield experience.
In a news release Wednesday, Churchill Downs said three projects are now set to be completed ahead of the next two iterations of the Kentucky Derby.
"Our new premium hospitality offerings at a range of attractive price points will be greatly enhanced and expanded by our investments in our flagship asset," Bill Carstanjen, Chief Executive Officer of CDI, said in the news release. "We remain committed to elevating the guest experience to support long-term growth."
Below is a rundown of the new plans:
Victory Run
Initially announced in October 2025, Victory Run will be a four-story premium hospitality venue that will fully enclose the first turn of the racetrack. It will replace older seating and dining areas with private suites, indoor and outdoor dining, as well as new covered seating.
The project that will cost between $280 million and $300 million.
On Wednesday, Churchill Downs said the area will have "temporary covered seating with enhanced amenities" in 2027 before its finished in 2028.
Expansion of the Homestretch Club
Ahead of the 153th Kentucky Derby in 2027, Churchill Downs plans to expand its Homestretch Club with more space for fans, more VIP seating and "enhanced food and beverage infrastructure."
The existing Homestretch Club entrance is located on the first floor and sits in between the start and finish line for the Derby, hence the namesake.
Ahead of the 153th Kentucky Derby in 2027, Churchill Downs plans to expand its Homestretch Club with more space for fans, more VIP seating and "enhanced food and beverage infrastructure." (Photo courtesy of Churchill Downs, Inc.)
Seating Upgrade in the Infield
In February 2025, Churchill Downs announced plans for a four-year, $920 million project which encompassed what would become Victory Run as well as a fully redesigned infield with several permanent buildings. That portion, at least for now has been scaled back, evidenced by the new infield plan Churchill Downs announced Wednesday.
Under the new plan, which will be ready for the 153rd Kentucky Derby in 2027, the track will add 1,400 temporary seats as well as an infield cabana offering another 500 covered seats along the turf course. The tote boards will be removed, creating new experiences and site lines of the track, winner's circle and more.
Churchill Downs plans add 1,400 temporary seats as well as an infield cabana offering another 500 covered seats along the turf course. The project is set to be done by May 2027. (Photo courtesy of Churchill Downs, Inc.)
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