The 2025-2026 championship meet at Gulfstream Park is set to feature thrilling highlights, including the $3 million Pegasus World Cup (G1), the $1 million Curlin Florida Derby (G1), and notably, the highly anticipated debut of the undefeated Ted Nophy in 2026. Hall of Fame trainer Todd Pletcher, an 18-time winner of the Championship Meet, is hopeful about securing a record ninth Florida Derby victory during the meet, which begins on Thanksgiving, November 27.
Pletcher praised Ted Nophy’s extraordinary two-year-old campaign, marked by three Group 1 wins and a Breeders’ Cup victory, noting the horse’s ability to handle increased class, distance, and travel. Jockey Ted Nophy, fresh off his $2 million Breeders’ Cup Juvenile (G1) win at Del Mar on October 31, will start his 2026 season on January 31, with possible starts in the $250,000 Holy Bull (G3) or the $400,000 Coolmore Fountain of Youth (G2) on February 28, ahead of the March 28 Florida Derby.
Pletcher indicated they plan to take a cautious approach with Ted Nophy, allowing the horse time to recover in November and deciding between the Holy Bull or the Fountain of Youth as his next race based on how he progresses. Spendthrift Farm LLC’s Into Mischief also made a strong debut, showing dominant performances at Saratoga and Keeneland before wrapping up the season with a decisive Breeders’ Cup Juvenile win.
With past Florida Derby winners like Fierceness, Forte, and Always Dreaming—all trained by Pletcher—this year’s lineup looks promising. Additionally, Pletcher is nurturing turf talent Final Score, who closed the juvenile season with wins in Saratoga’s With Anticipation (G3) and Keeneland’s Bourbon (G2). Pletcher also plans a return for Antiquarian, last year’s Jockey Club Gold Cup (G1) winner, though details remain open.
In summary, this meeting promises excitement and potential record-breaking moments as seasoned trainer Todd Pletcher continues to develop top-tier horses.
Fan Take: This news is electrifying for horse racing fans because Ted Nophy’s undefeated streak and expert training set the stage for a memorable season that could reshape the sport’s competitive landscape. With seasoned champions returning and new talents emerging, the 2025-2026 championship meet at Gulfstream Park promises thrilling racing action and renewed excitement for the sport’s future.
