Top Contenders Emerge for the 2025 Breeders’ Cup Classic

The stage is nearly set for the $7 million 2025 Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1) on November 1 at Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, and the final Classic Rankings offer a clear picture of the horses to watch — and possibly bet — in one of the year’s most anticipated races.

The Longines Breeders’ Cup Classic Rankings, a weekly poll of top contenders, closed with Godolphin’s superstar 3-year-old Sovereignty securing the top spot after dominating the standings for 10 straight weeks. Here’s a look at the results.

Myself and Aaron Halterman are official voting members, and you can view the full list of voting members here.

🥇 Sovereignty (394 votes, 35 first-place votes)

Trained by Bill Mott, Sovereignty has swept the Kentucky Derby (G1), Belmont Stakes (G1), and Travers Stakes (G1), stamping himself as the horse to beat. A classic distance specialist with tactical speed and stamina, he fits the profile of many past Classic winners.

Why bet: He’s the most accomplished 3-year-old in training and has handled every big stage.
Watch out for: Facing older horses for the first time can be tricky.

🥈 Fierceness (338 votes)

Owned by Repole Stable and trained by Todd Pletcher, Fierceness arrives in top form after a brilliant win in the Pacific Classic (G1) at Del Mar. His familiarity with the track gives him an added edge.

Why bet: Proven at Del Mar, strong early speed.
Watch out for: If the pace heats up, he’ll need to fend off closers late.

🥉 Sierra Leone (317 votes)

The defending Breeders’ Cup Classic champion Sierra Leone, trained by Chad Brown, has already qualified via the Whitney Stakes (G1). His powerful late kick makes him a serious threat if the pace melts down.

Why bet: Proven at the Classic distance and Del Mar surface.
Watch out for: He’ll need a fast pace to unleash his best run.

🔸 Mindframe (245 votes)

The lightly raced Mindframe has steadily climbed the ladder, winning the Stephen Foster Stakes (G1). Another from the Pletcher barn, he’s emerging as a legitimate upset contender.

Why bet: Peaking at the right time, strong tactical speed.
Watch out for: Less tested against the division’s best.

🌍 Forever Young (217 votes)

Japan’s star Forever Young made a sharp return with a win in the Nippon TV Hai and finished third in last year’s Classic. Trained by Yoshito Yahagi, he brings international class and big-race experience.

Why bet: Consistent, world-class runner with proven Classic form.
Watch out for: Adapting to pace pressure from top U.S. dirt horses.

🏇 Other Key Contenders

• Journalism (212 votes) – Winner of the Preakness Stakes (G1) and Haskell Stakes (G1). Speedy and dangerous if left alone up front.
• Baeza (172 votes) – Upset winner of the Pennsylvania Derby (G1). Improving at the right time.
• Antiquarian (120 votes) – Winner of the Jockey Club Gold Cup (G1); steady grinder who could clunk up late.
• Locked (58 votes) – Fresh off a win in the Woodward Stakes (G2). A dark horse with upside.
• Highland Falls (45 votes) – Runner-up in the Whitney; could offer longshot value.

Betting Outlook

• The Favorite: Sovereignty is expected to go off as the clear favorite. His Triple Crown résumé and consistency make him hard to ignore.
• The Challenger: Fierceness has the tactical edge and home-track advantage that could tilt the race in his favor.
• The Closer: Sierra Leone looms as the late threat, ready to capitalize if the leaders tire.
• The Wild Cards: Forever Young brings proven international class, while Mindframe may still be improving.

Early bettors may find the best value on Forever Young, Mindframe, or Sierra Leone, depending on how the pace sets up. Exotics like exactas and trifectas could feature a mix of these horses at appealing prices.

📅 Save the Date

Race: Longines Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1)
Purse: $7 million
Date: Saturday, November 1, 2025
Location: Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, Del Mar, California

The final field will be set during Breeders’ Cup week, but the contenders are already staking their claims. Whether you’re a casual fan or a serious bettor, this year’s Classic promises to be one of the deepest and most competitive in years. We will have expert picks and analysis for the entire two days of the Breeders’ Cup — with the 2025 Betting Bible dropping soon to help you crush your wagers!