DEL MAR — The excitement is building as the $7 million Breeders’ Cup Classic approaches, scheduled for October 31, 2025, at Del Mar. The absence of the top thoroughbred, Sovereignty, due to a fever, has left the door open for other contenders to vie for the prestigious title of North American Horse of the Year. This award will be determined by votes from reporters and racing officials in January 2026.
Top Contenders Take Center Stage
Among those stepping up to fill the gap left by Sovereignty are Journalism, currently ranked second among 3-year-olds, and a trio of formidable 4-year-olds: Fierceness, Sierra Leone, and Mindframe. Each of these horses has a strong chance to capture the coveted Horse of the Year accolade with a victory in the Classic.
Fierceness, who claimed the Pacific Classic at Del Mar in August, is the morning-line favorite at 5-2, ridden by John Velazquez. Following closely are Sierra Leone at 7-2 (Flavien Prat), Japan-based Forever Young at 5-1, Journalism at 6-1 (Jose Ortiz), and Mindframe at 6-1 (Irad Ortiz Jr.). With up to 37,500 fans expected at Del Mar, the atmosphere promises to be electric.
The Classic, a distance of 11⁄4 miles, is set for 15:25. Weather forecasts predict pleasant conditions with temperatures in the high 60s and mostly sunny skies, ensuring a fast and firm track.
Coaches Weigh In on the Stakes
Michael McCarthy, trainer of Journalism, emphasized the significance of the day, stating, “It’s racing’s championship day. That’s what it’s all about.” He expressed confidence that the outcomes could influence both the Horse of the Year and 3-year-old championship races. “I’d like to think we’re in the talk,” he added.
Chad Brown, who trains Sierra Leone and is returning to defend his 2024 Classic title, acknowledged that Sovereignty’s withdrawal could impact the competition. “That’s another disappointing aspect to this scratch,” Brown noted, highlighting how the absence of direct competition against the previous champion could affect their chances. He also has Contrary Thinking, a longshot at 50-1, entered strategically to set a fast pace.
Despite the speculation surrounding the year-end championships, Todd Pletcher, who trains Fierceness and Mindframe, conveyed that the outcome remains uncertain. “I think it was complicated even before the scratch,” he remarked, underscoring the weight this race carries.
Owner Mike Repole of Fierceness and Mindframe pointed out that Fierceness’ prior victory over Journalism suggests that the 4-year-olds may have an edge over their younger counterparts. “I think there’s like four or five horses that have enough of a résumé that if they win this race, they could be Horse of the Year,” Repole stated, naming key contenders.
Fierceness is expected to show early speed, having drawn post position one, while others like Nevada Beach (20-1) and Antiquarian (Luis Saez) seek to establish a strong pace. McCarthy aims for a more aggressive strategy with Journalism this time compared to previous races, where he was often held back.
John Shirreffs, trainer of Baeza (10-1), noted the tactical nature of the race, insisting that the riders will play a crucial role in determining the outcome. “I don’t know if you can handicap it that easily,” Shirreffs said.
In addition to the Classic, the day will feature a range of other high-stakes races, including the $5 million Turf with Rebel’s Romance aiming for a record-tying third Breeders’ Cup victory against the 3-year-old filly Minnie Hauk.
As anticipation builds for the Classic, trainers like Bob Baffert prepare their horses for a chance at glory. Baffert, one of the winningest trainers in Breeders’ Cup history, has several contenders, including the favorite in the $2 million Distaff, Seismic Beauty, and Nysos in the $1 million Dirt Mile.
“To me, what’s exciting are the ones I feel like I can win,” Baffert said, reflecting on the competitive landscape. The Breeders’ Cup Classic promises to be one of the most thrilling races in recent memory, with the potential to redefine the 2025 Horse of the Year race.
