Test Score and Destino D’Oro Win Turf and Filly & Mare Invitational Races as South Florida Celebrates a Star-Studded 10th Anniversary.
South Florida welcomed one of its most anticipated sporting fixtures on Saturday, January 24, 2026, as the Pegasus World Cup returned to Gulfstream Park for its tenth running. The sold-out event drew more than 10,000 guests and once again positioned the race day at the intersection of elite Thoroughbred competition, fashion, and social culture.
From the stands to the paddock, the crowd showcased the Pegasus World Cup’s evolution into more than a race day. Tailored suits, statement hats, and polished dresses filled the venue, reinforcing the event’s standing as both a sporting and social marker on the international racing calendar. Since its debut in 2017, the Pegasus World Cup has distinguished itself by pairing high-stakes racing with a carefully curated guest experience, a vision led by Belinda Stronach and 1/ST.
The championship races brought the day into sharp focus. The $3 million Pegasus World Cup Championship Invitational (GI) was won by Skippylongstocking, owned by Daniel Alonso, trained by Saffie A. Joseph, Jr., and ridden by Tyler Gaffalione. The winning connections were presented with the Baccarat Pegase Horse in Black, valued at $57,000, along with the signature championship rings.
On turf, Test Score captured the $1 million Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational (GI) for Amerman Racing LLC, trained by H. Graham Motion and ridden by Manuel Franco, earning the Baccarat Pegase Horse in Clear, valued at $50,000. The $500,000 Pegasus World Cup Filly & Mare Turf Invitational (GII) was claimed by Destino D’Oro, owned by Steve Landers Racing LLC, trained by Brad Cox, and ridden by Jose Alvarado. Winners celebrated trackside with Champagne Pommery.
From a wagering perspective, the 2026 edition set a new benchmark. A record handle of $48.5 million surpassed the previous high set in 2024. Across the 13-race card, 164 horses competed for more than $5.8 million in purses, including a strong field of graded stakes winners and international contenders.
“The 10th anniversary Pegasus World Cup was celebrated in true South Florida style and lived up to its reputation as horse racing’s hottest party,” said Belinda Stronach, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of 1/ST. “What began a decade ago as a bold idea has evolved into one of the most anticipated events in horse racing, uniting world-class sport with entertainment, hospitality, and culture. The undeniable success of this milestone reflects the dedication of our partners, horsemen and women, sponsors, and fans, and for that we are truly grateful.”
Beyond the racing, premium hospitality spaces anchored the day’s social calendar. The Flamingo Room offered elevated trackside views, cuisine from Groot Hospitality concepts Gekkō, Komodo, Papi Steak, and Casadonna, and live performances by Brian Newman. Following the races, Empire of the Sun delivered an exclusive DJ and vocal set, including their hit Walking on a Dream. Guests toasted with Cartier Champagne, while private suites featured curated offerings from Spicy Hospitality Group’s YASU Omakase and The Joyce, and signature cocktails such as the Pegasus Paloma and Dos Cupolas were served throughout the venue.
Elsewhere on the grounds, Groot Hospitality and Palm Tree Crew activated the Pegasus Fan Zone at the Carousel Club with trackside dining and performances headlined by Two Friends, alongside sets from Ruckus and Rae Sada. Adjacent, the Carousel Club VIP Garden provided homestretch views paired with premium food and beverage service.
A diverse mix of public figures came to support the day, including Mark Wahlberg, Kevin O’Leary, Braxton Berrios, Offset, Larsa Pippen, Isabela Grutman, Hannah Selleck, Ashley Taylor Arguello, Frank Walker, and Kiki Barth, among many others. Influencers such as Dale Moss and Ana Wolfermann were also present, sharing the experience with their audiences in real time.
The Pegasus World Cup’s impact was formally acknowledged by Hallandale Beach Mayor Joy Cooper and Aventura Mayor Howard Weinberg, who issued proclamations recognizing the event’s cultural and economic contributions to South Florida.
Following race day, celebrations continued into the evening at LIV Nightclub, where Frank Walker and ARTY headlined the official Pegasus World Cup after-party. The event was broadcast nationally on NBC and Peacock, with full-day coverage on FanDuel TV and international distribution via HBA Media, reaching viewers in more than 150 territories worldwide.
As the Pegasus World Cup closes its tenth chapter, the 2026 edition reinforced its standing as a defining fixture on the global racing calendar—one that continues to balance top-tier competition with a distinctly contemporary cultural lens.
Photo Gallery: CREDIT WORLD RED EYE
Follow Pegasus World Cup at www.pegasusworldcup.com or on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X @PegasusWorldCup.