The sun glinted off the track at Del Mar as the paddock buzzed with anticipation, and the crowd’s murmur swelled into cheers at every flash of silks in motion. For owners, trainers, and racing fans alike, the weekend of Oct. 31-Nov. 1 promises more than just high-octane competition — it delivers a celebration of Thoroughbred talent, rising stars, and the premium perks that make the Breeders’ Cup undercard at Del Mar an unmissable event.
Breeders’ Cup Limited and Del Mar Thoroughbred Club have unveiled an undercard program featuring eight races with total purses and awards exceeding $1.5 million. Alongside the cash prizes, participating connections will enjoy travel incentives, priority seating, and premium access across the two-day festival, ensuring that the weekend rewards both performance on the track and dedication off it.
Future Stars Friday: Juveniles and Turf Specialists Shine
Friday, Oct. 31, will showcase five races under the banner of Future Stars Friday, highlighting the sport’s next generation. The $200,000 Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Stakes stands out as a key test for 2-year-olds at one mile on turf. This race not only identifies promising young talent but also raises awareness for aftercare programs that support retired racehorses — a cause close to the hearts of the racing community.
The $200,000 Senator Ken Maddy Stakes offers fillies and mares, 3-year-olds and up, the chance to sprint five furlongs on turf for a listed prize, while the Golden State juvenile races give California-bred contenders a showcase on the main track. The Golden State Juvenile Fillies Stakes and Golden State Juvenile Stakes, each carrying $175,000 in purses over seven furlongs, allow the region’s brightest 2-year-olds to stake their claim on the national stage.
Owners and trainers will benefit from more than just prize money. The undercard program includes premium parking, exclusive seating, and a host of hospitality perks, reflecting the Breeders’ Cup’s commitment to both competition and experience.
Championship Saturday: Turf and Speed Take Center Stage
The excitement continues Saturday, Nov. 1, with three undercard races complementing the headline World Championship events. The $300,000 Goldikova Stakes Presented by Yaamava’ (G3), a one-mile turf contest for fillies and mares three years old and up, anchors the day. Alongside it, the Sunrise allowance at 1 1/16 miles on turf and the six-furlong Ocean View allowance promise thrilling sprints and tactical turf battles.
As with the 14 main Breeders’ Cup Championship races, all eight undercard contests will be conducted free of medication, maintaining fairness and integrity across the board. This commitment to clean racing underscores the prestige of the event and ensures that every performance is a true measure of equine ability and training excellence.
A Celebration Beyond the Track
Beyond the races themselves, the undercard program is a showcase for the culture and excitement of American Thoroughbred racing. Fans will witness the future stars of the sport, trainers will strategize over optimal placements and race-day decisions, and jockeys will demonstrate skill, courage, and timing under pressure. Every turn around the track brings suspense, every stretch run sparks cheers, and every winner’s circle celebration captures the human and equine drama that defines the Breeders’ Cup experience.
Final race order and post times for both Friday and Saturday will be announced Wednesday, Oct. 22, with nominations closing Thursday, Oct. 23. For more information, connections can reach out to Del Mar Racing Secretary David Jerkens or the Breeders’ Cup Racing Department directly.
With more than $1.5 million in purses, travel incentives, and a full slate of races designed to spotlight future stars, the Breeders’ Cup undercard at Del Mar promises a weekend of unforgettable racing, drama, and celebration. From sprint specialists to turf milers, each race offers the chance to witness the sport’s rising talents and enjoy the premium experience reserved for Breeders’ Cup participants.
Read the full coverage of the 2025 Breeders’ Cup undercard at RaceBuzz.
