Del Mar is again hosting the ‘world championships’ of racing, and we’ve got four Breeders’ Cup 2025 tips for Saturday’s star-studded card.
As usual, there are plenty of European raiders chasing the huge prize money on offer in California, and past history suggests they will not return home empty-handed.
AG Bullet
Del Mar 19:41 – AG Bullet
Despite Ralph Beckett’s Starlust springing a surprise 12 months ago, the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint is a tough test for the British and Irish runners, headed by Adrian Murray’s duo Arizona Blaze and Bucanero Fuerte, plus the Frankie Dettori-ridden Khaadem for Charles Hills.
Preference is for last year’s third Ag Bullet, who returns to Del Mar in rude health after following up a dominant Grade One success at Saratoga by justifying favouritism at Kentucky Downs.
Minnie Hauk
Del Mar 21:41 – Minnie Hauk
Christophe Soumillon will have to boil down to 8st 7lb to partner Aidan O’Brien’s Breeders’ Cup Turf market leader, and they must overcome a tricky draw, but Minnie Hauk remains hard to oppose as she seeks to cap off a stellar season in style.
The multiple Oaks winner made a bold bid for Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe glory, finishing more than five lengths clear of the rest when just collared close home by Daryz, and the set-up in California looks sure to suit her running style perfectly.
Fierceness
Del Mar 22:25 – Fierceness
Sovereignty will sadly miss the Breeders’ Cup Classic, but there remains a high-class field befitting America’s most cherished prize, and Fierceness is the one to beat if on his best behaviour Last year’s runner-up has fluffed his lines on occasions, notably in the 2024 Kentucky Derby and this season’s Whitney Stakes, but the manner of his course and distance triumph in the Pacific Classic Stakes at the end of August was simply awesome.
After kicking clear two furlongs out, Todd Pletcher’s charge powered home to hammer the reopposing Journalism by over three lengths and a repeat of that performance should be good enough again here.
Program Trading
Del MAR 23:05 – Program Trading
Charlie Appleby claimed three straight wins in the Breeders’ Cup Mile between 2021 and 2023, so last year’s 2000 Guineas hero Notable Speech commands obvious respect for the Godolphin camp. However, lightly-raced five-year-old Program Trading is an each-way fancy for the home team after coming home strongly to finish second to Rhetorical in Grade One company at Keeneland recently.
A three-time elite-level scorer prior to suffering a setback last summer, this son of Lope De Vega should now be spot on to show his true ability and trainer Chad Brown certainly knows how to get them right for the big night, boasting 19 past Breeders’ Cup winners.
Bet on Horse Racing Odds at BOYLE Sports
*Prices are subject to fluctuation
Remember, Always Gamble Responsibly
