The Poarch Creek Indians (PCI) and the McGregor Family announced on Wednesday that PCI’s Wind Creek Hospitality has purchased the Birmingham Racecourse.
The initial agreement between PCI and the McGregor Family was announced in November 2024.
“We are excited to finalize this acquisition and begin a new chapter for the Birmingham Racecourse,” said Jay Dorris, President and CEO of PCI Gaming Authority. “Our vision is to build upon the strong foundation that is already in place while enhancing the facility to create a first-class entertainment destination that benefits the Birmingham community and the region.”
The facility will continue to offer parimutuel and historical horse racing games that are currently in operation.
"As a Tribal people, we are committed to being good neighbors and to being a force for economic growth and positive change. We are very excited to have this wonderful opportunity in Birmingham, and we look forward to creating a top-tier entertainment venue that will bring a boost to the local economy, provide good jobs, and attract tourists from all over the country to one of America’s most dynamic cities,” PCI tribal chair and CEO Stephanie Bryan said in a statement.
Lewis Benefield, president of VictoryLand and former president of the Birmingham Racecourse, said, "This property has been a key asset for the Birmingham area for years, and today’s announcement marks a commitment to elevating the Birmingham Racecourse to new heights.”
“The McGregor family is proud to have operated this property over the past three decades, and we are confident that it will be in great hands under the leadership of Wind Creek Hospitality,” he added.
Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin stated, "More and more, Birmingham has a growing reputation as a destination for entertainment and sporting events, and this investment from the Poarch Creek Indians is a testament to the potential and vibrancy of our community.”
“The redevelopment of the Birmingham Racecourse will create jobs, drive tourism, and further establish our city as a key player in the entertainment and hospitality industry,” he added.
During 2025, PCI said they expect to finalize the transfer of operations, survey the region to better understand customer demands, and solidify plans to expand facilities and operations in the future.
Legislation expanding the types of casino gambling that could be offered in Alabama failed by one vote in the Senate last year, and no similar proposal has been introduced in the 2025 session yet.
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