Lamar Jackson Takes Over! New National Thoroughbred League Team Under His Command

The National Thoroughbred League has recently welcomed Lamar Jackson, a two-time NFL MVP and eminent quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens, as the newest team owner.

In his new role, Jackson will be a principal owner within a consortium that introduces the Maryland Colts into the NTL. The league’s season is set to commence this Sunday at Kentucky Downs with the NTL Nashville Cup, where competitors will vie for over $2 million in total prize money, including a standout race worth $1 million.

Additionally, Jackson is set to initiate a program aimed at providing underprivileged children in Maryland exposure to one of the state’s most prominent industries. This initiative will include complimentary access to the NTL Baltimore Cup and an apprenticeship scheme under the guidance of Chad Brown, a celebrated trainer and multiple Preakness Stakes victor.

“I am truly excited to be a part of this great opportunity,” expressed Jackson. “The fundamental values of excellence, teamwork, community, and leadership will propel this program to exceed our expectations. I am confident that our commitment and hard work will create more opportunities for Maryland’s youth. We are eager to witness the success of this vision becoming a reality.”

Jackson now joins the ranks of Julius Erving, Tanya Tucker, Nelly, Rick Ross, Kayvon Thibodeaux, and Moira Forbes, along with numerous experienced investors, as partners in NTL teams. The NTL represents a pioneering racing league that refashions America’s oldest spectator sport into a team-based professional league, featuring regular and safe racing of top-notch horses. This format allows fans to consistently support their favorite equine stars over time.

“When you walk a racetrack alongside Lamar Jackson, his ability to engage an audience is immediately apparent,” stated Randall Lane, NTL co-founder, who joined Jackson at this year’s Preakness Stakes. “His genuine connection and the excitement he generates align perfectly with the National Thoroughbred League’s mission. We aim to respect the traditions of one of America’s historic sports while injecting new excitement to attract and delight a broad audience. Lamar’s deep passion for Baltimore and his involvement bring great honor to our NTL family and inspire the future generation of fans.”

Following a successful debut season, the NTL has announced its expansion from six to ten teams and an increase in prize purses to over $3 million for the 2024 season, a significant rise from the previous year’s total of less than $1 million. Joining the Maryland Colts as new entries are the Miami Seahorses, the Phoenix Mustangs, and the San Francisco Unicorns. Thoroughbred owners will now have the opportunity to nominate their horses for draft selection to any of the ten NTL team rosters. These selected horses will represent their teams in races competing for the $3 million purse pool.

Earlier this year, Maryland Governor Wes Moore facilitated a deal to transfer ownership of Pimlico to the state and initiate a renovation project ensuring the track’s continued prominence in premium Thoroughbred racing and as a center of economic activity year-round. Although renovations at Pimlico are expected to take up to three years, the track is slated to host a special National Thoroughbred League race event in 2025.

Following this weekend’s season opener, the NTL will present the Philadelphia Cup on Oct. 19 and conclude with the league championship in Phoenix on Dec. 30.