Celebrating its 41st anniversary, this prestigious event began in 1984 at Hollywood Park and now stands as the Super Bowl of horse racing. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or tuning in for the first time, we’ve got you covered with all the essential insights and insider tips you need for an unforgettable experience.
Who?
The Breeders’ Cup World Championships is not just a local event—it’s a truly global affair that sees top-tier competition from every corner of the globe. Imagine watching Thoroughbred champions from as far afield as Argentina and Australia, down to the vibrant racing cultures in Japan and South Africa, all converging on a single venue.
This event serves as a melting pot of international talent, with past participants hailing from 15 different countries across six continents! Within the United States, the excitement ramps up as horses from various states—such as Kentucky, Florida, California, and beyond—come together to prove their prowess on this prestigious stage.
Whether you’re in awe of the diverse line-up or rooting for your local favorite, the Breeders’ Cup promises non-stop action and a chance to witness the next great racing legend emerge.
What and When?
Mark your calendars, racing enthusiasts, this year’s Breeders’ Cup is set to thrill on November 1st and 2nd. Typically, the World Championships are held over the first weekend of November, allowing ample time for Thoroughbreds to qualify throughout the year. This thrilling event unfolds over two action-packed days, featuring a total of 14 races.
Day one—dubbed Future Stars Friday—spotlights the promising 2-year-old Thoroughbreds. Highlight events include astonishing races like the $2 million NetJets Juvenile Fillies and the $1 million Juvenile Turf Sprint.
On Saturday, the excitement crescendos with races for Thoroughbreds aged three and older. Spectators can expect high-stakes events, such as the $7 million Longines Classic and the $5 million Longines Turf.
Hosted at varying esteemed locations each year, this prestigious series delivers not only fierce competition but also a spectacle, as it subtly enhances a horse’s career by possibly inflating its value and ensuring esteemed awards.
Where?
This year, pack your bags for Southern California as the Breeders’ Cup takes center stage at Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, affectionately known as “Where the Turf Meets the Surf.” It’s not just a race; it’s an experience! After hosting electrifying events in 2017 and 2021, Del Mar is set to enchant fans once more.
How?
So, how do these majestic Thoroughbreds earn their way to the esteemed Breeders’ Cup? It all begins with a nomination process for newborn Thoroughbreds, who can be entered into the Breeders’ Cup at just a $400 fee by October 15 of their birth year. This ensures their eligibility when the time comes for racing.
But all hope is not lost if this early window is missed. Owners can still supplement their horses into the race later by paying varying fees, depending on the horse’s age and their sire’s nomination status.
Another exciting avenue is through the “Win and You’re In” races. These prestigious Challenge Series races offer winners guaranteed spots in the Breeders’ Cup corresponding Championships race as long as their nomination is completed by October 21.
With 82 qualifying stakes races held in 12 countries worldwide, opportunities for qualification abound, all while providing generous travel allowances for competitors within and beyond North America, making it a truly global spectacle.
What to Expect?
As you gear up for the Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar, prepare for an electric atmosphere packed with unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re soaking in the excitement live at one of North America’s beloved tracks or enjoying the races from home, there’s something for everyone.
Del Mar offers a blend of VIP and general admission options, ensuring each fan can curate their own unique experience. Tickets are still available through the official Breeders’ Cup site—snag them now before they sell out!
Watching from home still promises thrills, with coverage spanning NBC, Peacock, USA Network, FanDuel TV, and more. Across the pond, UK and Ireland fans can tune in via ITV4, Sky Sports, or Racing TV, while Japanese enthusiasts can catch the action on Green Channel.
If you chase adrenaline, you should also check the FanDuel 2024 odds for Breeders’ Cup winners, which offer an opportunity to win big while predicting the champion.
