Target: Bill Carstanjen, Chief Executive Officer of Churchill Downs Incorporated
Goal: Implement immediate public disclosure of all serious injuries and deaths of horses at racing events.
Churchill Downs reportedly concealed the death of a 3-year-old colt named Vino Subito during the prestigious Kentucky Derby week, raising serious concerns about animal welfare and transparency at one of the most famous racetracks in the world. On April 28, during Race 7, horse Vino Subito suffered a catastrophic leg injury, leading to his ultimate euthanization two days later. Astonishingly, this tragic event was not disclosed to the public until after the conclusion of critical racing days, seemingly prioritizing business interests over the welfare of the horse.
The alleged lack of transparency at Churchill Downs is not isolated; PETA has documented a disturbing pattern of alleged injuries and fatalities associated with the track. Reports indicate that 19 horses were confirmed dead by the end of 2025, significantly exceeding previously disclosed numbers. As horse racing continues to be scrutinized for its ethical implications, it is crucial that Churchill Downs takes responsibility and commits to publicly addressing all serious injuries and deaths.
Immediate measures must be taken to ensure clear communication about the welfare of equine athletes. The time has come for Churchill Downs to adopt a transparent policy regarding all horse injuries and fatalities, reaffirming its commitment to the welfare of the animals that are integral to the racing industry.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear CEO Carstanjen,
It has come to the public’s attention that the tragic death of Vino Subito, a 3-year-old colt who suffered a catastrophic injury during a race, was allegedly concealed by Churchill Downs until after the key days of the Kentucky Derby. This incident raises alarming questions about the institution’s commitment to equine safety and transparency. Vino Subito endured a devastating injury on April 28 and was euthanized two days later, yet Churchill Downs did not disclose this information at the time.
This incident is not an isolated case. Reports indicate that 19 horses suffered fatal outcomes at your racetrack by the end of 2025, suggesting a serious ongoing issue that requires immediate attention. Hiding such heartbreaking realities reflects what appears to be a troubling pattern of prioritizing corporate interests over animal welfare, and it is essential that comprehensive measures are implemented to prevent such actions from continuing.
We demand that Churchill Downs adopt a policy that mandates the immediate public disclosure of all serious injuries and deaths. This is a crucial step toward rebuilding public trust and ensuring that the welfare of equine athletes is prioritized over profit and reputation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Pixabay
