The Pegasus World Cup returned to Gulfstream Park on Saturday, January 24, marking its 10th anniversary as one of the most influential events in Thoroughbred racing. What began a decade ago as a bold concept has evolved into a global spectacle that blends elite competition, luxury hospitality, and cultural relevance, all set against the unmistakable energy of South Florida.
This milestone edition unfolded before a sold-out crowd of more than 10,000 guests, delivering a signature Pegasus experience that continues to redefine what a modern race day can be. Nationally broadcast and distributed worldwide, the event once again attracted A-list celebrities, cultural tastemakers, and devoted racing fans, reinforcing its status as a defining fixture on the international racing calendar.
Championship Racing Takes Center Stage
At the heart of the celebration was world-class competition. The $3 million Pegasus World Cup Championship Invitational (GI) was captured by Skippylongstocking, owned by Daniel Alonso, trained by Saffie A. Joseph, Jr., and ridden by Tyler Gaffalione. Belinda Stronach, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of 1/ST, presented the winning connections with the iconic Baccarat Pegase Horse in Black, valued at $57,000, along with the signature championship rings.
The $1 million Pegasus World Cup Championship Turf Invitational (GI) was claimed by Test Score, owned by Amerman Racing LLC, trained by H. Graham Motion, and ridden by Manuel Franco. The connections were awarded the Baccarat Pegase Horse in Clear, valued at $50,000. The $500,000 Pegasus World Cup Filly & Mare Turf Invitational (GII) saw Destino D’Oro take top honors for owner Steve Landers Racing LLC, trainer Brad Cox, and jockey Jose Alvarado. Each victory was celebrated in fitting fashion with Champagne Pommery toasts.
Beyond the marquee races, the full 13-race card featured 164 horses competing for more than $5.8 million in purses, including graded stakes winners, international contenders, and championship-caliber runners.
Record-Breaking Wagering and Global Reach
The 2026 Pegasus World Cup race day set a new benchmark with a record $48.5 million handle, surpassing the previous high of $47 million set in 2024. The event’s reach extended far beyond South Florida, with national coverage on NBC and Peacock, full-day broadcasts on FanDuel TV, and global distribution via HBA Media. In total, the Pegasus World Cup reached audiences in more than 150 territories worldwide.
“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. “What began as a bold idea has grown into one of the most anticipated events in the sport, uniting world-class racing with entertainment, hospitality, and culture.”
A-List Attendance and Cultural Impact
The 10th anniversary celebration drew an impressive roster of celebrities and notable guests, including Mark Wahlberg, Kevin O’Leary, Braxton Berrios, Offset, Larsa Pippen, David Grutman, Isabela Grutman, Andre Sakhai, Griffin Johnson, Myles Shear, and Hannah Selleck, among many others.
Influencers and content creators also played a major role in amplifying the event’s global presence, with notable attendees including Dale Moss, Myles O’Neal, Ana Wolfermann, Silvana Mojica, Xandra Pohl, Paris Hilinski, and Macy Broyles.
Elevated Hospitality and Unmatched Entertainment
Reimagined for the 10th anniversary, the Flamingo Room delivered the ultimate VIP experience. Guests enjoyed cuisine curated by Groot Hospitality concepts Gekkō, Komodo, Papi Steak, and Casadonna, paired with sweeping track views and live performances by Brian Newman. The day culminated with an exclusive post-race DJ and vocal set by Empire of the Sun, who performed their iconic hit, Walking on a Dream. Select VIPs also enjoyed Cartier Champagne, the luxury jeweler’s exclusive sparkling wine.
Groot Hospitality, together with Palm Tree Crew, brought a distinctly Miami flair to the Pegasus Fan Zone at the Carousel Club. The space featured top-tier entertainment, celebrity appearances, trackside dining, and race-day performances headlined by Two Friends, with additional sets by Ruckus and Rae Sada. Adjacent to the Fan Zone, the Carousel Club VIP Garden offered on-the-rail homestretch views paired with premium food and beverage offerings.
Custom cocktails added to the South Florida vibe, including the Pegasus Paloma made with Don Julio Tequila and the Dos Cupolas cocktail crafted with Woodford Reserve Bourbon, coconut water, fresh mint, and lime.
Recognition, Partnerships, and the Celebration Beyond the Track
The milestone anniversary was formally recognized with proclamations from Hallandale Beach Mayor Joy Cooper and Aventura Mayor Howard Weinberg, underscoring the Pegasus World Cup’s cultural and economic impact on South Florida.
The 2026 event was supported by an extensive roster of premier partners across luxury, spirits, lifestyle, and global brands, including Anheuser-Busch, Don Julio, Brown-Forman, CELSIUS Energy Drinks, Champagne Pommery, Visit Lauderdale, Baccarat, Delta SkyMiles, and industry leaders such as Coolmore, Lane’s End, and Spendthrift Farm.
Following race day, the celebration continued at LIV Nightclub with the official Pegasus World Cup after-party headlined by Frank Walker and ARTY.
A Decade Defined
As the Pegasus World Cup closes its tenth chapter, the 2026 edition reaffirmed its legacy as horse racing’s most dynamic intersection of elite sport, luxury hospitality, and global culture. With record-setting wagering, unforgettable entertainment, and a worldwide audience, the Pegasus World Cup continues to set the standard for what the future of racing looks like.
For more information, visit www.pegasusworldcup.com or follow @PegasusWorldCup on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X.
