Arizona Suspends Wagering Permit for Turf Paradise
The Arizona Department of Gaming suspended betting at the Phoenix track following an internal dispute.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Equestrian
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The Arizona Department of Gaming has suspended the wagering permit for Turf Paradise and its off-track locations in Phoenix. The action follows a lockout of operator Skyfall 7 employees by the track landlord.
Why it matters
The suspension occurred because the state regulator determined that necessary operational requirements for authorized wagering are no longer being met. This regulatory intervention stems from a conflict between track owner Jerry Simms and the current operator.
The suspension impacts all operations at the Turf Paradise track located at 1501 W. Bell Road. Claimants waiting for payouts must now submit documentation to the Division of Racing for review.
The players
Arizona Department of Gaming
This state agency oversees the regulation of gaming activities and ensures compliance with wagering laws across Arizona.
Jerry Simms
He is the landlord and owner of the Turf Paradise race track property.
Skyfall 7
This entity serves as the operator of the Turf Paradise facility and its associated betting locations.
Arizona Racing Commission
This regulatory body governs horse racing operations and is responsible for determining the final status of track permits.
The details
The Arizona Department of Gaming shuttered the facility after the track landlord locked out the employees of Skyfall 7, the venue operator. Individuals currently holding outstanding wagers or seeking payouts are instructed to email their records and claim forms to the department.
Timeline
October 19, 2026: The suspension of the wagering permit was officially announced.
November 19, 2026: The Arizona Racing Commission will hold a formal hearing regarding the permit status.
Season Trajectory
This suspension effectively halts the racing season at Turf Paradise and creates immediate uncertainty regarding the venue's future role in the local sports calendar. The closure disrupts the broader competitive landscape for regional horse racing stakeholders.
Individuals with outstanding wagers or pending payouts are now required to submit their claim forms and records to rwagering@azgaming.gov for processing. These submissions will be forwarded by the Division of Racing to Skyfall 7 for consideration.
The takeaway
The suspension of the permit creates an immediate cessation of all betting activities at the track and its satellite locations. Impacted customers should ensure their claims are documented and submitted to the state as instructed to facilitate potential resolution.
What happens next
The Arizona Racing Commission is scheduled to convene for a formal hearing regarding the permit status of Turf Paradise on November 19, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on the regional racing landscape, visit the Equestrian section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by AZ Central.
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