Statement on review of close finish procedure for race held Sept. 11, 2026, at Laurel Park - Maryland Racing Commission

(Sept. 25, 2026)

Following the third race at Laurel Park on Friday, September 11, 2026, an incorrect unofficial order of finish was initially posted on the tote board and transmitted through the simulcast feed, indicating that #6 World On Fire finished first and #2 Tiz No Clown finished second. The posting was corrected approximately 10 minutes later, and the official order of finish announced was a dead heat for first place between the same two horses.

The Maryland Racing Commission reviewed this matter to determine how an incorrect unofficial order of finish was initially posted and to develop or reinforce safeguards to prevent similar errors in the future.

The review indicated that the photofinish camera was not placed at the correct wire for the race. This meant the stewards and placing judges needed to review race video, rather than a finish line photo, to determine the official placement. Further, in a close race, the placing judges should review available photo and video documentation and confer with the stewards prior to releasing an order of finish. In this case, they initially posted an unofficial result prior to completing that established review process.

The review found no evidence the incorrect posting was intentional or an attempt to influence the outcome. However, it did indicate a need for corrective measures to ensure the appropriate use of safeguards designed to prevent an unverified result from being posted.

To ensure future race integrity, the Commission has implemented mandatory verification of close finishes and stewards' verification of the finish process, and is developing a new photofinish equipment failure protocol and a mechanism to improve prompt public communication during delays to make it clear when a result remains under review.