Colonial Downs Unveils New Look for 2026 Race Season

The Virginia racetrack's rebrand features a thoroughbred-shaped logo representing the state's five regions.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Colonial Downs racetrack in New Kent, Virginia has rebranded itself ahead of its biggest horse racing season to date in 2026. The new brand, featuring a thoroughbred-shaped logo in the colors of copper and regal navy, will debut at the upcoming Virginia Derby spring meet from March 12-14. The rebrand comes as Colonial Downs expands its racing program to a record 48 days, including hosting the Virginia Derby - the state's only Kentucky Derby qualifying race.

Why it matters

The rebrand and expanded racing calendar at Colonial Downs signals growing interest and investment in Virginia's thoroughbred racing industry. As the state's premier racetrack, the changes aim to attract new fans and longtime enthusiasts to the thrill of live racing, while honoring the sport's rich history in the region.

The details

The new Colonial Downs logo features a thoroughbred in the shape of Virginia, with the horse's five-strand mane representing the state's five regions: Southwest Virginia, Northern Virginia, Central Virginia, Hampton Roads, and the Shenandoah Valley. The copper color of the horse symbolizes the connection to the earth and dirt of the racetrack, while the 'regal navy' represents the noble history and steady strength of horse racing.

  • The Virginia Derby spring meet will run from March 12-14, 2026.
  • The summer racing season at Colonial Downs will run from June 25 through September 7, 2026.

The players

Colonial Downs

A thoroughbred racetrack located in New Kent County, Virginia that has been acquired by Churchill Downs Inc. and is expanding its racing calendar and undergoing a rebrand for the 2026 season.

Frank Hopf

The senior director of racing operations at Colonial Downs, who announced the racetrack's new brand identity and expanded racing program for 2026.

Churchill Downs Inc.

The owner of the famous Kentucky Derby track, which acquired Colonial Downs in 2022 and has since expanded the Virginia racetrack's program and moved the Virginia Derby to the spring.

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What they’re saying

“With a record number of race days, growing crowds and purses, a Kentucky Derby qualifier race, and some of the most passionate fans around, Virginia is stepping into the sport's global spotlight.”

— Frank Hopf, Senior Director of Racing Operations, Colonial Downs (pilotonline.com)

“This exciting new identity for Colonial Downs honors Virginia's rich history of thoroughbred racing while inviting new fans and longtime enthusiasts to come experience the thrill of live racing at Virginia's premier thoroughbred racetrack. It's a new look for a new era, and we invite you to be a part of it.”

— Frank Hopf, Senior Director of Racing Operations, Colonial Downs (pilotonline.com)

What’s next

Tickets are on sale now at colonialdowns.com for the Virginia Derby on March 14, 2026 and for the 2026 racing season at Colonial Downs.

The takeaway

The rebrand and expansion of racing at Colonial Downs signals a renewed focus on growing Virginia's thoroughbred industry and attracting new fans to the thrill of live horse racing at the state's premier racetrack.