Gulfstream Park is set for a spectacular start to 2026 as 19 elite turf runners, including graded-stakes stars Cabo Spirit, Major Dude, Program Trading, and Wolfie’s Dynaghost, are confirmed on the initial invitation list for the $1 million Pegasus World Cup Turf (G1) on January 24. The 1 1/8-mile test for 4-year-olds and up promises another thrilling chapter in the World Cup Day program, which boasts 10 stakes, seven graded, and total purses of $5.55 million.
Among the trainers represented, Chad Brown, Mike Maker, and Hall of Famer Todd Pletcher have dominated the Pegasus Turf in recent years, combining for six wins in seven runnings. Brown’s Spirit of St Louis claimed the most recent edition, and all three trainers will have multiple contenders aiming for top honors this year.
The Pegasus World Cup Turf invitees read like a “who’s who” of North American and international turf talent. Almendares, the 6-year-old British-bred gelding, arrives off a string of graded-stakes placings, including a near-miss in the Seabiscuit Handicap (G2). Anegada, trained by two-time Pegasus Turf winner Mike Maker, brings a strong 1 1/8-mile stakes record, including victories in the Last Hurrah at Turfway Park and the Hawthorne Derby.
Other notables include Astronomer, yet to secure a graded win but consistently placing in stakes events, and Balnikhov, the 7-year-old who has amassed nearly $1.2 million in earnings and remains a formidable presence on turf. Beach Gold and Cabo Spirit, both seasoned graded-stakes performers, add depth and experience to the field.
California-based talents Call Sign Seven, Ohana Honor, and El Potente complement Gulfstream veterans Layabout, Major Dude, and Namaron, while South African import One Stripe makes his North American stakes debut after a dominant run in his homeland. Program Trading, a Chad Brown trainee and multiple Grade 1 winner, and Test Score, a rising 4-year-old Motion trainee, round out a highly competitive field. Wolfie’s Dynaghost, the 8-year-old with three consecutive wins, seeks to extend his streak on Gulfstream turf.
With last year’s Pegasus Turf producing surprise performances, this year’s edition promises fierce competition, strategy, and high-class turf action. Every entrant carries credentials that could tip the scales, making the race an early-season highlight for turf racing fans.
Gulfstream Park racecards 24 January set the stage for a high-class World Cup Day featuring elite turf performers and a packed stakes programme. For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to Racebuzz.