From top Thoroughbreds to live DJ sets and celebrity guests, the Pegasus World Cup combined sport, style, and spectacle.
On Saturday, January 25, 2025, the Pegasus World Cup at Gulfstream Park delivered high-stakes racing and star-studded excitement. Fans, industry insiders, and international celebrities gathered for one of winter racing’s most anticipated events, where top Thoroughbreds competed for multimillion-dollar purses.
White Abarrio Captures the Invitational
In the marquee $3 million Pegasus World Cup Invitational (GI), White Abarrio took the lead early and held it to the finish. Owned by C2 Racing Stable, Prince Faisal of Saudi Arabia, and Antonio Pagnano, the 6-year-old colt is trained by Saffie Joseph Jr. and ridden by Irad Ortiz Jr. The winning connections received the Baccarat Pegasus Championship Trophy, valued at $47,000, presented by Belinda Stronach, Chairman and CEO of 1/ST.
The commanding victory reinforced White Abarrio’s standing among the nation’s top dirt horses. Celebrations in the winner’s circle included Champagne Pommery toasts, with owners, trainers, and jockeys enjoying the moment together.
Turf and Filly & Mare Winners
On the grass, Spirit of St Louis, trained by Chad Brown and ridden by Tyler Gaffalione, won the $1 million Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational (GI) presented by Qatar Racing. Meanwhile, Ireland’s Be Your Best, trained by Saffie Joseph Jr. and ridden by Edgard Zayas, captured the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Pegasus World Cup Filly & Mare Turf Invitational (G2) presented by SirDavis American Whisky. Championship rings were presented to all winning owners, trainers, and jockeys.
A Star-Studded Celebration
The Pegasus World Cup is as much a social event as a racing spectacle. Celebrities attending included Mike Tyson, Winnie Harlow, Peso Pluma, and Ja Rule, who mingled with fans and industry insiders in the infield. Live performances by DJs Black Coffee and Diplo added energy and atmosphere, blending music, fashion, and sport into a single high-profile event.
Looking Ahead
With elite horses, international competitors, and high-profile spectators, the 2025 Pegasus World Cup reaffirmed its place as one of North America’s premier winter racing events. The excitement of the day sets the tone for the rest of the season, leaving fans and participants eager for what comes next at Gulfstream Park.
