Things that are uncertain on Churchill Downs - There is almost no certainty on the track this year, too.

Economic uncertainty caused by President Donald Trump's oscillating tariff policies is vaguely visible on the Kentucky Derby, the longest sporting event in the United States and the most exciting two minutes of sports competition.

The track itself has some projects on hold.

"Uncertainty is a theme in the U.S. economy, and it's a topic we focus on," said Bill Carstanjen, CEO of Churchill Downs. "So we did pause our $900 million construction project, mainly because we're not sure how much it will cost. You have to be very careful whenever you build something."

Churchill Downs announced last week that it will announce a major renovation project in February due to economic uncertainty and Trump’s tariffs. The racecourse plans to debut these renovations in next year's racing season, which includes over 20,000 new seats, 36 luxury suites and upgrades to infrastructure. But higher steel prices (critical to construction) and supply chain disruptions have created a "double blow" for Churchill Downs.

Carstanjen said the tariffs and the current economic environment "an expected cost of materials has increased, currently unpredictable and currently unquantifiable expected cost".

While the 151st Kentucky Derby is expected to achieve its normal attendance, Carstanjen does see sales hesitation this year, especially in low-level tickets. In addition to ticket sales, Churchill Downs generally saw a "soft" overall in some bets, including slips and falls in sports betting, reaching more than $1 million, Carstanjen said. He accused the removal of consumer confidence.

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, a Democrat in a largely Republican country, called Trump’s tariffs “an attack on the American people” and noted that two Republican senators from his state also criticized the president’s economic strategy.

"The president's current tariff plan has caused chaos in our economy," he said in a press conference on Thursday. "This is slowing down our economic growth. It is hitting large businesses and UPS has announced a lot of layoffs. It is hitting small and medium businesses."

Many Derby revelers are aware of Churchill Downs’ announcement, especially those who are impressed with this year’s renovation. Ed Massey of New Jersey has been here at the Derby for decades.

"Tariffs won't hinder the spirit of the 151 derby," he told NBC News. "But I do worry about the future growth of the event. The derby will exceed any tariffs, but will it grow? It remains to be seen."

Horse racing and bets are not the only two Kentucky staples, they are hit by tariffs. Economic experts in the state say they have seen an impact on agriculture, energy, manufacturing and bourbon, which has a $9 billion impact in Kentucky.

"A billion dollar investment is more than just what it means to the track, and it will have a ripple effect on the economy in the region," said Kate Shanks, vice president of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce. "You have to buy wood. You have to buy glass, steel, hire electricians, HVAC workers, and we are eager to see that happen. Now that it's stopped, it will definitely have an impact on the work in the region."

According to the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, there are about 480,000 trade-dependent jobs in the state. The Chamber of Commerce estimates that these tariffs will cost Kentucky an average of $1,200 a year.