As anticipation builds for the 2026 Curlin Florida Derby at Gulfstream Park, a new digital auction is set to offer a distinctive way for owners and buyers to engage with one of the year’s most high-profile racing weekends. The inaugural Curlin Florida Derby Sale, a collaboration between Inglis Digital USA and 1/ST, will give owners a timely avenue to offer their horses and give buyers direct access to coveted South Florida talent.
The online sale, focused on South Florida-based horses, comes just ahead of the Kentucky Derby prep races, including the Florida Derby itself. Owners can enter horses currently running on the Florida Derby card, while breeders and trainers have the chance to showcase promising prospects before the marquee weekend. Horses may also be offered in fractional shares, allowing sellers to retain a stake while opening doors to new ownership.
Entries for the Curlin Florida Derby Sale will begin closing on Friday, March 13, with rolling approvals accepted up until the sale day. The official catalog will be released on Wednesday, March 18, and the auction will conclude Monday, March 23, beginning at 2 p.m. Eastern, with lots closing in three-minute intervals.
David Duggan, Executive Vice President of 1/ST Racing, emphasized the sale’s timing and impact: “The Curlin Florida Derby Sale connects buyers and sellers right at the heart of one of racing’s most important weekends. It provides owners meaningful liquidity and buyers immediate access to Gulfstream’s marquee event, all within a modern digital platform reflecting today’s racing landscape.”
Inglis Digital USA CEO Kyle Wilson added, “Being linked with a race as prestigious as the Curlin Florida Derby offers an exciting opportunity for owners and buyers alike. South Florida is home to a large population of quality horses, and this sale gives participants a timely, high-profile marketplace to engage before the Florida Derby and its undercard races.”
The sale will also be supported through cross-promotion on the Gulfstream Park grounds. Inglis Digital USA will serve as the presenting sponsor for the Davona Dale Stakes (G2) on Saturday, Feb. 28, with branding across the program, simulcast feed, and track property to highlight the upcoming auction.
Horses purchased via the Curlin Florida Derby Sale may compete in their races under their current trainer, with new owners free to make trainer changes afterward. Buyers of horses in upcoming races must hold or obtain a valid Florida Racing License.
With the sale closing just days before the Florida Derby on Saturday, March 28, it provides a timely opportunity for horsemen and women to assess stock, update pedigrees, and plan for the spring and summer racing season.
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