Pegasus World Cup 2027
GULFSTREAM PARK
RACE INFO
WHEN IS THE NEXT PEGASUS WORLD CUP?
23rd January 2027
FLORIDA'S GREATEST HORSE RACE
FLAT
Distance: 1800m
Surface: Dirt
PRIZE MONEY
Winner: $1,750,000 Million
Prize Fund: $3 Million
ENTRY
Qualification: Four-year-olds+
Weight: Colts 124lbs/fillies 121lbs
PEGASUS WORLD CUP BOOKMAKER
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ODDS & RUNNERS 2027
No horse is guaranteed a position in the race until the final declaration stage. Check the odds with your Bookmaker before placing a bet, as fluctuations occur. Full Terms and Conditions for the promotional bet offers can be found on the respective websites – read them before you sign up. Important to Remember: Please be aware that when you place a bet on a horse in the ante-post market and your chosen horse is subsequently withdrawn from the race for any reason, your ante-post bet is considered lost. In such cases, the bookmaker will retain your stake.
| No | Horse | Odds | Age | Weight | Jockey | Trainer | Form |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| - | Disco Time | 8/5 | Brad Cox | ||||
| - | Tappan Street | 6/1 | Brad Cox | ||||
| - | Full Serrano | 12/1 | John Sadler | ||||
| - | Skippylongstocking | 15/1 | Saffie Joseph Jr. | ||||
| - | Banishing | 20/1 | David Jacobson | ||||
| - | Poster | 20/1 | Eoin Harty | ||||
| - | British Isles | 20/1 | Richard Baltas |
RACE OVERVIEW
The Pegasus World Cup, held each January at Gulfstream Park in Hallandale Beach, Florida, has rapidly become one of the most prestigious events on the international horse racing calendar.
Since its inaugural running in 2017, the race has attracted top-tier horses, trainers, and owners from around the globe, blending high-stakes competition with a glamorous social scene.
The event is renowned not only for its impressive purse - $3 million for the main Invitational Stakes in 2025, but also for its vibrant atmosphere, drawing celebrities, business moguls, and racing enthusiasts to South Florida for a day of world-class sport and entertainment.
Most Exciting Race of the Year
Nicknamed “Florida’s Greatest Horse Race,” the Pegasus World Cup is a Grade I Thoroughbred flat race run over 1⅛ miles (about 1,810 meters) on Gulfstream Park’s left-handed dirt track.
Open to horses aged four and older, the race is designed as a showcase for established stars and a final high-profile test before many contenders retire to stud, given its strategic placement just before the North American breeding season.
The event’s blend of luxury and excitement is unmatched: guests enjoy gourmet dining, live music, and a lively social scene, while the racing itself features some of the world’s elite equine athletes battling for one of the richest purses in North America.
The Pegasus World Cup’s unique format and evolving entry system have set it apart from traditional races, adding intrigue and exclusivity to the competition.
Historic Roots
The origins of the Pegasus World Cup trace back to a bold vision by Frank Stronach, who proposed the race in 2016 to fill a winter lull in the American racing calendar.
The inaugural 2017 race boasted a then-record $12 million purse, briefly making it the world’s richest horse race.
This innovative approach included a shareholder entry model, where owners could buy positions in the starting gate, lease or sell their spots, and share in race revenues.
Over time, the format and prize structure have evolved, with the purse peaking at $16 million in 2018 before stabilising at $3 million in recent years.
Despite these changes, the Pegasus World Cup has maintained its reputation for attracting legendary horses and delivering memorable performances, cementing its place as a modern classic in Thoroughbred racing.
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TRENDS & STATS
Favorites for the Pegasus World Cup often share several notable trends and characteristics.
Pegasus World Cup Favourites
Typically, these contenders are older, proven horses with impressive career earnings. Many have surpassed the $1 million mark and boast strong records in Grade I races.
They frequently come into the Pegasus with recent top-level performances, such as victories or placings in prestigious races like the Breeders’ Cup Classic or Whitney Stakes, and often have demonstrated previous success at Gulfstream Park, which is a significant advantage given the track’s unique surface and configuration.
Favourites also tend to be trained by high-profile trainers and partnered with jockeys who have a history of success in major races; for example, Irad Ortiz Jr. has multiple Pegasus wins.
Statistically, horses starting as the betting favourite have produced the best results in recent renewals, while those with two starts in the prior 90 days have underperformed.
Jockeys in the Pegasus World Cup
The most successful jockey in Pegasus World Cup history is Irad Ortiz Jr., who has won the race three times - in 2020 (Mucho Gusto), 2022 (Life Is Good), and 2025 (White Abarrio).
His consistent success has set him apart from his peers, making him the clear standout in the event's short history.
Other jockeys with Pegasus World Cup wins include Flavien Prat (2024, National Treasure), Junior Alvarado (2023, Art Collector), Joel Rosario (2021, Knicks Go), Javier Castellano (2019, City of Light), Florent Geroux (2018, Gun Runner), and Mike E. Smith (2017, Arrogate), each with one victory.
However, no other jockey has matched Ortiz Jr.'s record. His ability to deliver in high-pressure situations and his strong partnerships with top trainers have contributed to his dominance in the Pegasus World Cup.
Trainers' Impact
The most successful trainer in Pegasus World Cup history is Hall of Famer Bob Baffert, who holds the record with three wins.
Baffert’s victories came with Arrogate in the inaugural 2017 running, Mucho Gusto in 2020, and National Treasure in 2024, demonstrating his consistent ability to prepare elite horses for this high-stakes event.
Other trainers who have won the Pegasus World Cup include Steve Asmussen (Gun Runner, 2018), Michael McCarthy (City of Light, 2019), Todd Pletcher (Life Is Good, 2022), Brad Cox (Knicks Go, 2021), William Mott (Art Collector, 2023), and Saffie Joseph Jr. (White Abarrio, 2025), each with one victory.
Post Positions
Post position draw is a crucial factor in the Pegasus World Cup due to the unique configuration and track biases at Gulfstream Park.
Inside post positions are generally considered advantageous because the layout features a short run to the first turn, allowing horses drawn inside to secure a favourable position early, conserve ground, and avoid being forced wide.
Horses starting from outside posts, such as post 11 or 12, face a significant challenge: they must either break quickly to avoid being shuffled back or risk covering extra ground around the first turn, which can be difficult to overcome against elite competition.
Historical data underscores this challenge; only three horses have won a 1⅛-mile race at Gulfstream Park from post position 11 in the past 18 years, highlighting the statistical disadvantage for wide draws.
Additionally, Gulfstream Park is known for an “early speed bias,” meaning horses that can secure a forward position, often easier from inside posts, tend to perform best.
TICKETS & PRICING
For the 2026 Pegasus World Cup at Gulfstream park, ticket pricing and options vary significantly depending on the seating and amenities.
The event is scheduled for Saturday, January 24th, 2026.
Here's a breakdown of the different ticket options and their respective prices as of 2025:
Premium Experiences
- Flamingo Room: A celebrity hot spot with panoramic third-level views, gourmet cuisine by Groot Hospitality, premium open bar, and exclusive “blue carpet” entrance.
Pricing starts at $1,000 per person. - Private Suites: Private terraces overlooking the track, upscale catering, and luxury amenities. Pricing available upon request (typically in the $2,000+ per person.
- VIP Tables (Garden at Carousel Club): Exclusive rail-side enclave with private entrance, prime viewing of races and performances, premium bottle and food service.
Pricing starts at $900 per person; table packages available.
Reserved Seating
- Ten Palms: Starting at $600 and includes a gourmet buffet, table seating, spectacular track views, and a cash bar.
- Carousel Club VIP: Priced from $550 per person, with up-on-the-rail homestretch views, sponsored open bar, complimentary bites, and access to live entertainment.
General Admission
- Infield: General admission tickets start at $125 for a single day, offering a festive atmosphere and access to various food and beverage options.
Package Deals
- Garden at Carousel Club: Elevated VIP experience with exclusive access, prime race and stage views, and bespoke cocktails. Prices start at $900 for reserved seating packages.
- VIP Experience: For the ultimate luxury, limited VIP experiences and private suites are available, featuring exclusive access, meet-and-greets, gourmet dining, and more. Pricing is custom, generally $2,000–$5,000+ per person.
Each of these options offers a different experience and view of the race, with prices reflecting the level of access and amenities provided.
For detailed information on admission policies and to purchase tickets, visit the official Pegasus World Cup website or contact their ticketing office.
VISITOR TIPS
Visiting Gulfstream Park for the Pegasus World Cup 2026 and exploring the surrounding area in Florida can be an exciting experience.
Here are some visitor tips for Gulfstream Park and attractions nearby:
Gulfstream Park and Pegasus World Cup Tips:
- Fashion and Comfort: Embrace elegant race-day attire-hats and fascinators are popular for women, while men often wear tailored suits
- Weather Preparedness: South Florida in January is typically warm and sunny, but shade can be limited in some seating areas. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself during the day.
- Crowd Management: The Pegasus World Cup attracts a sold-out crowd of over 10,000 guests, so arrive early to secure your spot, explore the paddock, and enjoy shopping or dining before the main races.
- Security Measures: Expect standard security screenings and bag checks at entry. Review the official Gulfstream Park website for the latest list of permitted and prohibited items to ensure a smooth arrival.
- Digital Tickets: All tickets are digital-have them ready on your smartphone for quick and easy entry.
- Transportation: While Gulfstream Park offers ample free parking, traffic in South Florida can be heavy, especially on major event days. Consider using rideshare services or booking a luxury transfer for a stress-free arrival and departure.
Nearby Attractions in Florida:
- Hallandale Beach: Relax on a mile of pristine sand just minutes from Gulfstream Park. South City Beach Park offers beach access, restrooms, an open-air pavilion, volleyball courts, and a playground-perfect for families or a post-race stroll.
- The Village at Gulfstream Park: This open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment complex is adjacent to the racetrack. Explore boutique shops, art galleries, and a wide array of restaurants.
- Hollywood Broadwalk: A scenic, palm-lined promenade along the Atlantic, the Hollywood Broadwalk is ideal for walking, biking, or rollerblading.
- Anne Kolb Nature Center: Nature lovers can explore this nearby preserve with mangrove trails, observation towers, and guided boat tours through the Intracoastal Waterway.
- Aventura Mall: One of South Florida’s premier shopping destinations, Aventura Mall boasts luxury boutiques, department stores, and diverse dining options, all within a short drive of Gulfstream Park.
These tips and attractions should help make your visit to the Pegasus World Cup and the surrounding area in South Florida both enjoyable and memorable.
Remember, planning ahead and being prepared for the large crowds and diverse weather conditions will enhance your experience.
HISTORY
The Pegasus World Cup, inaugurated on January 28, 2017, at Gulfstream Park in Hallandale Beach, Florida, quickly established itself as one of the most innovative and high-profile events in international horse racing.
Conceived by Frank Stronach and the Stronach Group, the race was designed to fill a lull in the North American racing calendar, offering elite horses one final opportunity to compete at the highest level before the breeding season commenced in mid-February.
The event’s timing, nestled between the Breeders’ Cup and the Dubai World Cup, ensured it would attract top-tier talent without conflicting with other major global races.
From its inception, the Pegasus World Cup was distinguished by its unprecedented purse and unique business model. The inaugural running boasted a $12 million purse, surpassing the Dubai World Cup as the richest horse race in the world at that time.
Entry into the race was equally bold: twelve stakeholders each paid $1 million for a spot in the starting gate, which they could use themselves, lease, or sell.
This shareholder format, coupled with a winner’s purse of $7 million, generated immense buzz and drew some of the sport’s biggest names, including the champion Arrogate, who delivered a dominant performance in the first edition.
The race’s second year saw the purse increase to a staggering $16 million, with additional funds contributed by the Stronach Group.
However, from 2019 onward, the format and prize structure evolved. The introduction of the Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational diversified the event, but the purse for the main dirt race was reduced to $9 million, and the entry fee dropped to $500,000.
By 2020, the race became an invitational with no entry fees, and the purse settled at $3 million, where it has remained.
Notably, the Pegasus World Cup also became a leader in equine welfare, instituting a medication-free policy in 2020 that banned all race-day medications, including Lasix, marking a significant shift in North American racing standards.
The Pegasus World Cup has maintained its reputation for glamour, star power, and high-stakes competition.
It has been won by some of the most celebrated horses, trainers, and jockeys in the sport, and continues to serve as a launching pad for the racing season’s biggest storylines.
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FAQs
1. What is the Pegasus World Cup? The Pegasus World Cup is a prestigious Grade I Thoroughbred horse racing event held annually at Gulfstream Park in Hallandale Beach, Florida. Launched in 2017, it is known for its large purse, elite international field, and luxurious social atmosphere, making it one of the most important and glamorous races in North America.
2. Where is the Pegasus World Cup held? The Pegasus World Cup takes place at Gulfstream Park, a premier racetrack and entertainment complex located in Hallandale Beach, Florida.
3. When does the Pegasus World Cup happen? It is typically held in late January. In 2025, the event took place on Saturday, January 25.
4. How long is the Pegasus World Cup race? The main Pegasus World Cup Invitational is run over 1⅛ miles (9 furlongs), which is approximately 1,810 meters, on the dirt track at Gulfstream Park.
5. What is the significance of the Pegasus World Cup? It is one of the richest and most high-profile races in the world, attracting top horses, jockeys, and trainers.
6. How can I attend the Pegasus World Cup? Tickets can be purchased online at the official Pegasus World Cup website or by calling the Pegasus Box Office.
7. What should I wear to the Pegasus World Cup? Fashion is a major part of the Pegasus World Cup experience. Guests are encouraged to dress in stylish, elegant race-day attire.
8. Can I bet on the Pegasus World Cup? Yes, betting is a key part of the experience. Wagering can be done at the track with cash or through contactless options for convenience and safety.
9. What are some Pegasus World Cup traditions? Traditions include world-class entertainment and musical performances, high-end hospitality, and a vibrant social scene.
10. Who are some famous Pegasus World Cup winners? Notable winners include Arrogate, Gun Runner, City of Light, Knicks Go, and Life Is Good-some of the most celebrated horses in recent racing history.
11. Can I bring children to the Pegasus World Cup? Yes, children aged 3 and under can enter free with a paying adult ticket (one child per adult ticket). The event is family-friendly, but parents should plan accordingly.
12. Are there special events during the Pegasus World Cup Weekend? Yes, the Pegasus World Cup features a full day of top-tier racing, live music performances, celebrity appearances, and luxury hospitality.
13. How can I watch the Pegasus World Cup if I can't attend in person? The Pegasus World Cup is broadcast live nationally on NBC and streamed on Peacock, and is distributed to over 150 territories worldwide. Check your local listings or streaming services for availability.
