New $40M Sports Gaming Facility Opens in Western Kentucky

Marshall Yards Racing & Gaming features historical racing machines, sportsbook, and more.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A new $40 million sports gaming facility called Marshall Yards Racing & Gaming has officially opened in Calvert City, Kentucky. The facility, operated by Churchill Downs Incorporated, features hundreds of historical racing machines, a retail sportsbook, simulcast wagering, and several food and beverage options.

Why it matters

The opening of Marshall Yards represents Churchill Downs' continued expansion beyond the Kentucky Derby into regional entertainment and gaming operations. It is expected to generate new economic opportunities and tourism for the western Kentucky area.

The details

Marshall Yards Racing & Gaming held its grand opening on Wednesday, with officials from Churchill Downs Incorporated and Calvert City cutting the ribbon on the new facility. The 40,000-square-foot complex includes hundreds of historical racing machines, a retail sportsbook, simulcast wagering, and multiple dining and beverage options.

  • Marshall Yards Racing & Gaming officially opened on February 25, 2026.

The players

Churchill Downs Incorporated

The parent company of Marshall Yards Racing & Gaming and the organization behind the Kentucky Derby.

Bill Carstanjen

The CEO of Churchill Downs Incorporated.

Calvert City

The western Kentucky city where the new Marshall Yards facility is located.

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What they’re saying

“Marshall Yards reflects our vision to build destination experiences that generate local economic opportunities, inspire regional tourism, and secure our place at the forefront of racing and entertainment.”

— Bill Carstanjen, CEO, Churchill Downs Incorporated (kfvs12.com)

What’s next

Churchill Downs Incorporated plans to continue expanding its regional gaming and entertainment operations in the coming years.

The takeaway

The opening of Marshall Yards Racing & Gaming demonstrates Churchill Downs' strategy to diversify beyond the Kentucky Derby and establish a presence in the growing sports gaming and regional entertainment market.