Management of Ruidoso Downs Race Track announced Monday that the entire 2026 live racing season will be held at the Downs of Albuquerque, citing damage from catastrophic flooding.
In a statement released on the track’s website, owner Johnny Trotter and general manager Rick Baugh said they decided to relocate next season after consulting with county officials. The meet was scheduled to open Friday, May 22.
Analysis from the engineering firm JE Fuller, retained by the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security, showed the track faces ongoing flooding risks that cannot be adequately addressed through proposed fixes.
“Based on the findings, and our follow-up discussions with governmental agencies, the engineers specializing in hydrology and flooding concluded that the racetrack is not sustainable as a public venue,” according to the track statement.
