CDI, Nevada End Impasse Over Simulcasting Rights
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Photo: Anne M. Eberhardt
A bettor places a wager at Churchill Downs
A dispute between Churchill Downs Inc. and Nevada racebooks over the use of Churchill Downs simulcast signal is over. Churchill Downs Inc. and the Nevada Pari-Mutuel Association have come to an agreement, an official with CDI confirmed April 26, ending the standoff that began in late 2019 over what Churchill Downs wanted the state's racebooks to pay for Churchill's simulcast signal and wagering.
Tonya Abeln, vice president of corporate communications for CDI, issued a statement saying that "CDI is pleased to have an agreement in place with the Nevada Pari-Mutuel Association to offer wagering on the Churchill Downs Spring Meet, including the Kentucky Oaks (G1) and the Kentucky Derby (G1). We are thrilled that the Nevada horseplayers will have access to these premier races."
The agreement between Churchill Downs and the Nevada Pari-Mutuel Association follows an agreement made this winter that cleared the way for Nevada to offer simulcast wagering on races from Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots and Turfway Park, two other CDI-owned properties. Oaklawn Park is not a CDI-owned track but contracts with the company for simulcasting.
Horse Racing Nation reported Tuesday that a separate contract between the company that distributes racing simulcasts to the state's casinos is required before betting on Churchill Downs races can resume.
Todd Roberts, president of the Nevada Disseminators Service, said he expects that deal will be finalized April 26 and sent to regulators April 27.