BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The Poarch Band of Creek Indians, known for their ownership of various casinos across the United States, has agreed to acquire the Birmingham Racecourse.


The McGregor family, who currently owns both the Birmingham Racecourse and VictoryLand, a former dog racing venue located in Macon County, announced on Monday that a purchase agreement has been reached.


The acquisition will be carried out by Wind Creek Hospitality, the hospitality division owned by the Poarch Band, and the transaction is anticipated to conclude by early 2025. Details concerning the purchase price have not been made public.


Situated in Alabama’s largest urban area, the Birmingham Racecourse has a history as a venue for live horse and dog racing events. According to the announcement, Wind Creek Hospitality intends to revamp the Birmingham Racecourse into a leading entertainment hub while continuing to provide parimutuel and historical horse racing games that are currently available at the site.


Alabama law prohibits full-scale casinos that feature table games and slot machines. The Poarch Band operates three casinos in Alabama that utilize electronic bingo machines, which are similar to slot machines but operate within the confines of state laws. The state has consistently tried to regulate similar gaming activities on non-tribal lands.


There have been multiple unsuccessful efforts to permit a limited number of casinos throughout Alabama. This topic may resurface during the legislative session scheduled for 2025.


“The people of Birmingham want access to the same entertainment options that are available at other establishments across Alabama,” stated Lewis Benefield, president of both the Birmingham Racecourse and VictoryLand. He expressed that differing state gaming laws and enforcement policies have hindered their competitiveness in the market.


As a result of the acquisition, the McGregor family plans to concentrate more on VictoryLand in Macon County and continue advocating for cohesive gaming legislation in Alabama, which they believe could generate essential revenue for the state’s residents.


In a statement regarding the acquisition, Stephanie Bryan, the Tribal Chair and CEO of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to invest further and strengthen existing relationships in Birmingham, highlighting its vibrant community.