The National Thoroughbred League announced March 31 its schedule for the 2025 season, with races taking place throughout the spring and summer in Baltimore, Philadelphia, St. Louis, and Nashville.
Coming off a successful second season that saw attendance and betting records set, the 2025 schedule expands to four race weekends and will boast more than $2.5 million in prize purses.
"We couldn't be more excited for the 2025 season after witnessing such an incredible surge in fan engagement, wagering activity, and race attendance last year," said Philadelphia Stallions owner Julius 'Dr. J' Erving. "The energy around the sport is at an all-time high, and we're eager to build on that momentum with our stable and give fans even more unforgettable moments on the track."
Tickets for the 2025 season are on sale now. Team owners Lamar Jackson, Julius Erving, and Tanya Tucker will each host one of the four league events, and the full race schedule can be found below:
The Baltimore Cup, May 10 at Pimlico Race Course: The NTL season kickoff also officially kicks off Preakness Week, celebrating the 150th running of the second leg of the Triple Crown. We'll do it right with a feast for all senses with food, fashion, games, and celebrities. Who better to host this historic weekend than the two-time NFL MVP—and Maryland Colts lead owner—Lamar Jackson.
The Philadelphia Cup, June 15 at Parx Racing: Hosted by Philadelphia 76ers legend Julius 'Dr.' Erving and held on Father's Day, for the ultimate day of fun, sun, and sports, we'll have three exciting races, featuring our 10 teams and saluting the Eagles, the Sixers, and the FIFA Club World Cup. The event will feature special drinks and food from Danny and Coop's, a cigar lounge, fashion shows, and meet-and-greets with Philadelphia legends. The weekend will also boast the NTL's first-ever "Philly Special" golf tournament.
The St. Louis Cup, July 19 at Fairmont Park: The NTL brings the action to the Midwest for the first time. Hosted by a notable celebrity to be announced, the weekend will highlight the newest stars of thoroughbred racing, ripping up the track with world-class barbecue, a VIP cocktails competition, and a fashion show.
The Nashville Cup, Aug. 30 at Kentucky Downs: The third season of the NTL will culminate with five races and more than $2 million in purses. Hosted by Country Music Hall of Famer Tanya Tucker, the experience will include the annual owners' banquet, the best tastes of Nashville, music, open bar, and Thoroughbred and Nashville royalty for one of the biggest days in horse racing in America this year.
New for the 2025 season, dozens of Thoroughbreds have been nominated to compete for the 10 NTL teams across the year, creating consistent rosters that fans can follow and cheer for. The league's 10 teams will participate in a draft in mid-April.
Said Randall Lane, co-founder of the NTL: "Our expanded race schedule and addition of dedicated team horses furthers our mission of creating an innovative new format to engage the next generation of horse racing fans." Added NTL co-founder Bob Daugherty: "The success of our first two seasons highlights the rising momentum for horse racing as a team sport."
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.NTL.Racing.
This press release has been edited for content and style by BloodHorse Staff.
