LOUISVILLE, KY – MAY 03: Sovereignty, with jockey Junior Alvarado aboard, holds off Journalism, with jockey Umberto Rispoli aboard, to win the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby on May 3, 2025, at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky. (Photo by Jeff Moreland/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
The 2025 Breeders’ Cup Classic promises a thrilling clash of speed, stamina, and sheer grit as America’s top dirt horses converge at Del Mar. While the official post entries aren’t set yet, a handful of names currently dominate the conversation in the Classic mix.
Sovereignty – The 3-Year-Old Phenom
At the top of the power rankings sits Sovereignty, fresh off emphatic wins in the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes, and a dominant performance in the Travers. His combination of class, consistency, and momentum make him the horse to beat. The question: Can he carry his 3-year-old form into a major clash against older rivals over 1¼ miles at Del Mar?
Fierceness – Late-Bloomer with Upside
Not far behind is Fierceness, last year’s Kentucky Derby favorite and recent winner of the Pacific Classic. He picks up steam late and has a growing résumé. But can he handle the pressure of a deep, high-stakes Classic field? His tactical speed and closing kick make him dangerous under the right pace setup if he decides to bring it.
Sierra Leone – Defending Champion
Sierra Leone, the winner of the 2024 Breeders’ Cup Classic, returns as a proven force. He’s shown resilience and a willingness to pounce late in past Classics, and he’s put together strong performances in major preps (including the Whitney). If he can replicate that late burst at Del Mar, he’s dangerous. But consistency over his 4-year-old season has been a bit spotty.
Mindframe – Wild Card with Speed
Mindframe is an intriguing entry — he boasts early speed and has flashed brilliance in shorter tests. The risk is whether he can sustain that speed over the Classic distance against seasoned rivals. If he can settle early and avoid being overheated, his pace advantage might catch others off guard.
Journalism – The Late Riser
Journalism has quietly been rising through the ranks thanks to consistent performances and strong connections (trained by Michael McCarthy). He doesn’t carry the heavy expectations of some rivals, which might allow him to sneak in under the radar. If pace collapses up front, his late kick could be a threat.
What to Watch
- Pace structure & fractions — Who sets the early tempo? Horses like Mindframe may push early, forcing closers to burn energy early.
- Trip & traffic — With a full field, paths will matter. Those able to settle off the pace and navigate midrace congestion may have the edge.
- Stamina under pressure — Del Mar’s track can test horses at this distance; those who can carry a sustained run late will be at a premium.
- 3-year-old vs older horses — Sovereignty’s youth and upside are offset by the experience and strength of older challengers like Sierra Leone.
In sum, the 2025 Classic is shaping into a battle between youthful brilliance (Sovereignty, Fierceness) and seasoned veterans (Sierra Leone, Journalism). Expect fireworks—and perhaps a few surprises—when the gates open.