Nelly Brings National Thoroughbred League Team to St. Louis, Announces “The Nellies”
A new era of horse racing is galloping toward St. Louis, thanks to a significant investment from hip-hop icon Nelly. The artist has finalized the purchase of a National Thoroughbred League (NTL) team, relocating it from Seattle and rebranding it as the “St. Louis Nellies.”
The move signals a strategic expansion for the NTL and a homecoming for Nelly, who expressed his deep connection to the city. “I’m excited to be part of bringing a new professional sports team to the city that means so much to me…” Nelly stated in a recent announcement. “I can’t wait to hit the track and celebrate with our incredible St. Louis fans.”
Revitalizing the Sport of Kings
The NTL is aiming to modernize horse racing, traditionally known as the “sport of kings,” by making it more accessible to a broader audience. According to one investor, A Tribe Called Quest’s Jarobi White, “I thought it was a brilliant idea to take one of the oldest sports and give it a new spin, refreshing it for a new age.” White added that the league’s approach is “making the sport more accessible, so everyone from kings to commoners can enjoy.”
Fairmount Park Set for a $100 Million Transformation
The St. Louis Nellies will race at Fairmount Park in nearby Collinsville, Illinois. The historic track, already boasting a century of racing history, is undergoing a substantial $100 million renovation. This investment underscores the NTL’s commitment to providing a premier venue for both athletes and fans.
St. Louis: A Natural Fit for the NTL
The decision to bring a team to St. Louis was driven by the city’s passionate sports fanbase and its demonstrated support for local teams. A senior NTL official noted, “You look at the Cardinals, St. Louis supports its teams and falls in love with its teams.” Coordination with the mayor’s office has been completed, further solidifying the partnership.
The NTL is specifically drawn to locations with existing racing traditions and significant investment. “We like going where there’s investment. We like going where there’s a century-old tradition of horse racing,” the official explained. However, the league emphasized that Nelly’s involvement was crucial. “We wouldn’t have done this without Nelly spearheading it, because having local ownership, having somebody that’s so synonymous with the city…is so fun.” The team name, “The St. Louis Nellies,” is a testament to this local connection.
Nelly Cup to Kick Off the Season
To celebrate the arrival of the Nellies, Nelly will host the inaugural Nelly Cup at Fairmount Park on July 19. The event will feature a performance by Jarobi White and a fashion show inspired by Nelly’s iconic style.
The launch of the St. Louis Nellies represents a bold new chapter for the NTL, blending the excitement of horse racing with the energy of a vibrant city and the star power of one of its most celebrated sons.
