Wynn Resorts has officially withdrawn from its efforts to secure a casino license in New York, ending a years-long bid to develop a luxury gaming resort in Manhattan’s Hudson Yards district. The company announced that, following an extensive rezoning review, it concluded that its capital would be better deployed elsewhere.
The planned project was a partnership between Wynn and Related Companies, aiming to establish a high-end casino complex in a neighborhood already known for upscale retail and dining. Despite the prime location and ambitious vision, Wynn ultimately decided that the obstacles—especially persistent local opposition—rendered the venture unfeasible. In a statement, the company acknowledged that “years of persistent opposition” and complications surrounding the rezoning process made the project increasingly untenable.
Wynn’s exit makes it the second major casino operator this spring to abandon a New York bid. Las Vegas Sands similarly walked away from a proposed development at the Nassau Coliseum site on Long Island, citing concerns over potential future competition from iGaming if New York state moves to legalize online casino offerings. Sands is now seeking a third-party buyer to take over its efforts—an opportunity that has cost the company both time and tens of millions in investment.
Industry insiders from several gaming firms have privately expressed frustration over the New York casino licensing process. Many describe it as politically driven, slow-moving, and prohibitively expensive. While the state plans to issue three licenses, the process has experienced multiple delays, further discouraging potential bidders.
MGM Resorts and Resorts World, operated by Genting Group, are seen as leading contenders for two of the licenses, as both already operate slots-only gaming venues in the state and are well-positioned for full-scale casino upgrades.
Meanwhile, other high-profile contenders remain in the running. Steve Cohen, owner of the New York Mets, is partnering with Hard Rock International to propose a casino near Citi Field. Caesars, in collaboration with SL Green and Roc Nation, has proposed a casino in Times Square.
Despite the competition, Wynn noted that any operator would face long-term opposition and significant hurdles. Instead, the company will redirect its financial resources toward stock buybacks and ongoing global developments, including its flagship project in the United Arab Emirates, where it is building the region’s first luxury casino resort.
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