Hawthorne Harness: Illinois Racing Board suspends licenses

The Illinois Harness Horseman’s Association posted a letter from the Illinois Racing Board on its Facebook page on January 26 stating that Hawthorne Racecourse’s license to conduct harness racing has been suspended.

Officially operating under Suburban Downs, Inc., Hawthorne has canceled all of its racing dates so far in 2026 – most after the draw was complete – due to an ongoing financing issue. The release cites the reason for the suspension as: “failure to provide documentation demonstrating its financial integrity, and proof they can meet the minimum standards outlined in the Horse Racing Act and rules contained in Title 11 of the Illinois Administrative Code.”

The release goes on to point out that the Racing Board will consider reinstating the licenses of Suburban Downs, Inc. “should they cure the violations and provide documentation demonstrating they meet the minimum standards, including but not limited to its financial integrity.”

Hawthorne was scheduled to race on Saturdays and Sundays in 2026 through February 15. The track was also approved for 20 harness dates in November and December of this year.