Published on: April 19, 2026, 12:04h.

Updated on: April 19, 2026, 12:04h.

• Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa announced the closure of Rideau Carleton Raceway earlier this month.
• Ontario Racing reported that industry insiders have positively reacted to funding offers to assist in relocating to other horse racing venues.
• Efforts are underway in the Eastern Ontario horse racing community to save Rideau Carleton Raceway.

An Ontario Racing representative stated that they have received encouraging feedback from horsepeople in the Ottawa region regarding funding assistance for relocation after Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa decided to shut down harness racing at Rideau Carleton Raceway following 64 years of service. However, local advocates are working hard to reverse this decision.

Significant Financial Investments

According to Dave Briggs from Ontario Racing, “We are still in the early stages regarding the specifics of the funding and how many horsepeople will accept the offer, as many are still advocating for the preservation of racing in Ottawa.”

On April 2, Hard Rock revealed the decision to close followed comprehensive discussions with Ontario Racing.

The company indicated that after three race seasons under its ownership, it had invested “millions of dollars” into the facility by renovating the racing paddock and enhancing infrastructure to better serve patrons, yet persistent concerns regarding the long-term financial viability of the racing program could not be resolved.

Relocation Assistance for Industry Personnel

“Many people have cherished memories of the racing industry, but consumer trends have shifted,” commented Christine Crump, President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa. “This is a sorrowful moment for our employees, the horse racing community, and all those affected. The legacy of racing at Rideau Carleton Raceway will always remain a vital part of the venue’s story,” she added.

Ontario Racing emphasized their commitment not to abandon individuals involved in the horse racing sector in eastern Ontario, assuring that funds would be reallocated to support those seeking relocation within Ontario. The province still boasts 14 horse racing tracks—more than any other area in the world. Briggs stated that further information regarding funding for horsepeople will be announced shortly.

The movement to “Save Rideau Racing” has gained traction with a dedicated Facebook page and a petition that has garnered 3,580 signatures, urging the Ontario government to intervene and conduct a public review of the Hard Rock decision. As reported by Standardbred Canada, the National Capital Region Harness Horse Association plans to engage Hard Rock to explore potential pathways forward.

Hard Rock’s Closure Decision

Briggs added that similar to many sectors, horse racing is encountering financial hurdles due to rising inflation and market competition from online gambling. Ontario is no exception. However, the province’s horse racing sector remains robust due to a strong partnership with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation, which supports approximately 23,000 full-time equivalent jobs in this sector.

“The choice to cease racing at Rideau Carleton was made by Hard Rock,” remarked Briggs. “Ontario Racing’s primary concern regarding Hard Rock’s notification is for the individuals most affected by this decision—the 14 dedicated employees and all horsepeople and related businesses that relied on racing at that venue. We also share in the disappointment of ending horse racing in the Ottawa region after 64 continuous years. Ottawa represents a significant wagering and racing hub in eastern Ontario.”

Casino Revamp

Hard Rock announced in a statement that employees impacted by the closure would be offered other job opportunities within the organization, along with skill training to assist in transitioning.

The recently renovated Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa opened in 2025, featuring a $350 million investment. The resort includes a 150-room hotel with 22 suites, an expanded gaming area with up to 1,500 slot machines, 40 live-action tables, and exclusive high-limit gaming options.

Amenities also include six dining establishments and a 23,000 square foot performance venue that accommodates 1,900 seats for concerts and events.

Similar to other land-based casinos in Ontario, while Hard Rock operates the property, governance falls under the OLG, with a portion of the revenues benefiting the local community.

As per OLG, nearly $1.6 million was redistributed back to the municipality in Q3.