Who Owns Delaware Park Casino?
Delaware Park Casino is one of the most popular gaming destinations on the East Coast. Located in Wilmington, Delaware, it’s not just a casino—it also has a thoroughbred racetrack and golf course.
For decades, locals and visitors have enjoyed slots, table games, sports betting, and live racing at this historic property. But many people ask: who owns Delaware Park Casino today?
The answer isn’t as simple as one person’s name. Delaware Park has a long history of ownership changes, from family control to private investment groups. Knowing who owns it now gives you insight into how it’s managed, why it has grown, and where it might be headed in the future.
Early History of Delaware Park
Delaware Park first opened in 1937 as a horse racing track. Built during the golden age of American horse racing, it quickly became a favorite for racing fans in the Mid-Atlantic region.
The track was designed by William duPont, Jr., a member of the famous duPont family.
For decades, racing was the main attraction, with live thoroughbred events drawing crowds.
When slot machines and casino games were legalized in Delaware in the 1990s, Delaware Park expanded into a full racino (racetrack + casino).
This transformation set the stage for modern ownership and investment.
The Rickman Family Era
For many years, William Rickman Sr. and the Rickman family were the driving force behind Delaware Park. They took over ownership in the 1980s and oversaw the property’s expansion from a racing-only venue to a full casino and entertainment complex.
Key contributions during the Rickman family’s ownership:
Added slot machines in the late 1990s when Delaware legalized casino gaming.
Expanded to include table games and poker when the law allowed.
Managed the balance between horse racing traditions and casino operations.
The Rickmans kept Delaware Park as a family-run business for decades.
The 2021 Sale of Delaware Park
In November 2021, big news broke: the Rickman family sold Delaware Park Casino after nearly 40 years of ownership.
The new owners are a group of private investors that includes:
Clairvest Group Inc. – A Canadian private equity firm specializing in gaming and entertainment investments.
Rubico Gaming LLC – A Chicago-based gaming investment group led by Thomas Benninger, an experienced figure in the casino industry.
This deal marked a major shift, moving Delaware Park from family ownership to corporate investment.
Who Owns Delaware Park Casino Now?
As of today, Delaware Park Casino is owned by a partnership between Clairvest Group and Rubico Gaming.
Clairvest Group Inc.: Founded in 1987, Clairvest invests in gaming, technology, and renewable energy companies. They already own stakes in other casinos and racetracks, giving them strong industry experience.
Rubico Gaming LLC: Founded by Thomas Benninger, who has been involved in major casino projects in Las Vegas and beyond. His company focuses on acquiring and improving gaming properties.
Together, these two groups purchased Delaware Park for an undisclosed price, though estimates suggest the deal was worth hundreds of millions of dollars.
Why the Ownership Change Matters
Ownership changes often mean changes for the property itself. Here’s why the new ownership of Delaware Park Casino matters to players and the community:
Fresh Investment: Corporate owners often put money into upgrades, renovations, and new amenities.
Industry Experience: Both Clairvest and Rubico have experience in gaming, which may bring new strategies and technology.
Focus on Growth: Investors typically look to expand revenue, possibly by upgrading casino floors, restaurants, or entertainment options.
Local Impact: Delaware Park is a big employer in the region. Ownership changes can affect jobs, racing schedules, and community programs.
For players, the good news is that ownership by experienced groups usually means improvements to gaming experiences and facilities.
Delaware Park Casino Today
Under its current ownership, Delaware Park Casino continues to operate as a racino with:
2,300+ slot machines
Poker room and live table games (blackjack, craps, roulette, baccarat)
Live and simulcast horse racing
Sports betting (both retail and online)
Restaurants and bars
White Clay Creek Country Club (an 18-hole golf course)
The new owners have shown interest in keeping the balance between racing tradition and modern casino gaming, much like the Rickmans did.
Conclusion
So, who owns Delaware Park Casino? It is owned by Clairvest Group Inc. and Rubico Gaming LLC, who purchased it from the Rickman family in 2021. The Rickmans ran the casino for nearly 40 years, transforming it from a historic horse racing venue into one of Delaware’s most important gaming and entertainment destinations.
With its new ownership, Delaware Park is expected to see upgrades and continued growth. For players, that means more modern gaming options while still keeping the charm of its horse racing roots.
FAQs
Who owns Delaware Park Casino now?
Delaware Park Casino is owned by Clairvest Group Inc. (a Canadian private equity firm) and Rubico Gaming LLC (a Chicago-based gaming investment group). They purchased it in 2021 from the Rickman family.
Did the Rickman family sell Delaware Park?
Yes. After nearly 40 years of ownership, the Rickman family sold Delaware Park Casino in 2021 to Clairvest and Rubico Gaming.
What makes Delaware Park unique?
Delaware Park is both a casino and a horse racing track. It offers slots, table games, poker, sports betting, live racing, and even a golf course, making it a full entertainment destination.
Is Delaware Park Casino still open?
Yes, Delaware Park Casino is open and operating under its new owners. It continues to offer casino games, sports betting, horse racing, and dining options.
Will Delaware Park Casino change under new ownership?
Yes, changes are likely over time. The new owners have experience in gaming and investment, so players can expect upgrades, renovations, and possibly new features in the future.
