A new professional horse racing league is set to debut in 2027, bringing a team-based format to Thoroughbred racing. The league’s inaugural championship will be held at Keeneland in Lexington.

The Horse Racing League (HRL), announced by former Liberty Media CEO Greg Maffei and entrepreneur Danny Epstien, aims to reimagine horse racing by introducing franchises, season-long competition and team rivalries designed to keep fans engaged beyond the sport’s biggest races.

The inaugural season is scheduled to begin in February 2027 at Santa Anita Park before moving to Gulfstream Park. The season will conclude with the league championship at Keeneland.

Unlike traditional horse racing, where attention is often centered on individual horses and marquee events, HRL will feature 10 teams competing for points throughout the season. Each team will draft eight horses during a televised draft, with results from each race contributing to the overall championship standings.

League organizers say the format is intended to create season-long storylines and give fans teams and personalities to follow, similar to other professional sports. The concept also includes behind-the-scenes content, digital fan engagement and live event experiences aimed at attracting new audiences while complementing the sport’s existing traditions.

The league has already attracted several prominent owners and investors, including Godolphin, WinStar Farm, Florida Panthers owner Vinnie Viola and film producer Gary Barber. Additional team owners are expected to be announced ahead of the inaugural season.

Organizers have also announced plans for more than $10 million in purses and season-ending awards, with races held across the three host venues.

Additional details, including team identities, race schedules and broadcast partners, are expected to be announced as the league prepares for its 2027 debut.