Core Insights - Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) announced the 152 Spring Meet and Derby Week will take place from April 25 to June 28, 2026, featuring 44 racing days, with Derby Week running from April 25 to May 2, 2026 [1][2] Event Highlights - The 152 Kentucky Derby will be held on May 2, 2026, marking the first Sunday racing during Derby Week since 2010, with various themed events planned throughout the week [2][5] - The Kentucky Oaks will take place for the first time in primetime on May 1, 2026, with a purse of $1.5 million, while the Kentucky Derby will feature a $5 million purse [5] Venue Information - Churchill Downs Racetrack, located in Louisville, spans 175 acres and includes a one-mile dirt track and a 7/8-mile turf track, accommodating approximately 60,000 guests and 1,400 horses [4]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported all-time record net revenue of $934 million and adjusted EBITDA of $451 million for the second quarter of 2025, marking the fifth consecutive second quarter of record results [8][29] - Adjusted EBITDA for the Live and Historical Racing segment grew by $17 million or 6% compared to the prior year, driven primarily by HRM growth in Kentucky and Virginia [30] - The company generated $455 million or $6.29 per share of free cash flow in the first half of the year, with a reduction in maintenance capital projection by $10 million to $80 million to $90 million [35][36] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Churchill Downs Racetrack adjusted EBITDA was down $1 million, less than 1%, due to a high prior year comparison from the 150th Kentucky Derby [30] - All HRM properties in Kentucky delivered growth in the second quarter, with strong performance from Northern Kentucky and Louisville venues [31] - The Exacta business contributed over $3 million to adjusted EBITDA growth from third-party customers and HRM properties [32] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Wagering on the Derby race increased by 11% over last year's all-time high, with Derby Day wagering up 9% and Derby Week wagering rising 6% [15] - Virginia properties collectively delivered over $8 million of growth compared to the prior year, despite a higher handle tax rate [31] - The company expects to close the transaction for the Casino Salem project in New Hampshire in the third quarter, targeting a state-of-the-art gaming and entertainment destination [23] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to grow Derby Week through ticketing revenue, broadcast rights, wagering, sponsorships, and selective renovations [10][18] - A new seven-year contract with NBC is expected to provide a $10 million increase in adjusted EBITDA for 2026 [13] - Strategic investments in capital improvements are planned to enhance guest experiences and broaden appeal [19][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the growth potential in Virginia and Kentucky, with a strong focus on building customer relationships and brand awareness [21][92] - The company anticipates generating significant growth for Derby Week in 2026 based on various catalysts [20] - Management highlighted the importance of international marketing efforts to enhance the global presence of the Kentucky Derby [50] Other Important Information - The company announced a new common stock repurchase program of up to $500 million, reflecting confidence in future growth [36] - The federal tax bill is expected to reduce cash taxes by $50 million to $60 million in 2025, with similar benefits anticipated for 2026 [37][56] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations around pricing at the Starting Gate Pavilion - Management expects increased demand and pricing for the Starting Gate Pavilion due to positive word-of-mouth from last year's introduction [40] Question: Discussion on the New Hampshire market - Management indicated that the Salem location is strategically positioned to tap into both New Hampshire and Massachusetts markets, with a strong demographic outlook [44] Question: International attendance and marketing for the Derby - Management noted that thoroughbred racing is a global sport, and efforts are underway to build international connections and sponsorships [50] Question: Impact of the federal tax bill on future cash flow - Management expects similar cash tax savings for 2026 as in 2025, with a focus on strategic capital management and shareholder returns [56][58] Question: Growth potential for HRM properties in Kentucky and Virginia - Management believes there is substantial runway for growth in both states, with strong metrics supporting continued expansion [61] Question: Strategies for driving visitation to The Rose - Management emphasized the importance of building brand awareness and customer relationships in the Northern Virginia market [90]

Core Points - NBC Sports will present the Kentucky Oaks in primetime for the first time on May 1, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock, enhancing the event's visibility and audience reach [2][3] - The Kentucky Derby, America's oldest major sporting event, will take place on May 2, 2026, and the previous year's event was the most-watched since 1989, peaking at 21.8 million viewers [3] - Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) has extended its partnership with NBC Sports, making NBC the longest-running broadcaster of the Kentucky Derby, covering 32 editions from 2001 to 2032 [4] Company Overview - Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) has been creating entertainment experiences for over 150 years, with a focus on the Kentucky Derby and expansion into live racing, online wagering, and casino gaming [5]