TORONTO — Ontario’s standardbred racing industry will receive over $14 million in additional money as part of the Ontario government’s boost in funding to horse racing in the province.
Last month, the province earmarked an additional $35 million annually to the industry over the next five years.
However, it tasked Ontario Racing with deciding the breakdown between the three racing disciplines (thoroughbred, standardbred and quarterhorse).
Ontario Racing governs the breeding, scheduling, and promotion of horse racing across Ontario and is recognized by the provincial government as the industry’s official authority.
Standardbred racing is conducted at 11 of Ontario’s 14 racetracks.
Thoroughbred racing will receive over $10 million in additional funding while the quarterhorse industry will get $780,000.
The increased funding, which begins this year, will result in an average per-card purse increase of 28 per cent, plus $500,000 added to the quarter horse improvement program.
Thoroughbred racing is conducted at both Woodbine and Fort Erie race tracks.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 9, 2026.
The Canadian Press
