Historic 47th MGM Yonkers International Trot Scheduled for September 12 at Yonkers Raceway at Empire

Start: Saturday, September 12, 2026 3:00PM
End: Saturday, September 12, 2026 10:00PM

Yonkers, NY — The 127th season at historic Yonkers Raceway at Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts announces the return of the MGM Yonkers International Trot. The 47th edition of the event is scheduled for Saturday, September 12 at 3 p.m. and will feature horses from Europe and North America competing for a $1 million purse. 

The International Trot launched in 1959 at the now defunct Roosevelt Raceway. The event moved to Yonkers Raceway in 1988 and was contested as a mile-and-a-quarter event on the historic half-mile track for a few years Revived in 2015 after a 20-year hiatus, it’s now officially known as the MGM Yonkers International Trot and is one of only two million-dollar races in North America. It is also one of the few stakes races, which is fully funded by the host track and requires no financial commitment from owners. 

Reigning champion Lexus Kody representing Canada and driven by Hall of Famer Yannick Gingras returns to the International Trot lineup this year to defend the title against Diva EK representing Italy, Powwow representing Norway, and Gio Cash representing Germany, who placed second, third and fourth in 2025, respectively. 

“We’re honored to host The International Trot here in Yonkers Raceway for another year, welcoming top talent from around the world,” said Jonathan Frasure, Race Secretary at Yonkers Raceway. "The event carries a lot of history since its inception in 1959, and has since proven to be more than just a race. It allows us to continue to raise funds to support New York’s agriculture industry. We’re looking forward to the much-anticipated rematch between last year’s top finishers, and welcoming newcomers to the field.”

Since MGM Resorts purchased Empire City in 2019, MGM Resorts has made historic investments in the track to create a top-tier racing experience, including resurfacing the track and paddock, installing LED lighting and additional enhancements. 

The same day, the $2.4 million New York Sire Stakes Day of Champions will showcase the state’s top 2- and 3-year-old pacers and trotters. First race post is scheduled for 11:50 a.m. 

For more information about the International Trot and MGM Resorts, please visit www.empirecitycasino.com. 

About Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts

Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts is one of the largest entertainment and gaming destinations in the northeast. Featuring nearly 4,700 of the hottest slots, electronic three-card poker, blackjack, craps, roulette, baccarat and sic bo table games, Empire City Casino also offers guests year-round harness racing and international simulcasting; live entertainment, and more. A selection of dining options will satisfy even the most discerning palate with fan-favorite fare at The Pub, and convenient delicious options at Lil’ Cocina and the Big Kitchen International Food Court. Visit Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts located at 810 Yonkers Avenue (off I-87 at Central Avenue) Yonkers, NY, Westchester County, open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. For more information, visit www.empirecitycasino.com or call 914-968-4200.

Media Contacts: 

Josh Knoller, josh@nicholaslence.com 

Jasmin Curtiss, jasmin@nicholaslence.com