2025 Pegasus World Cup Photo Credit: World Red Eye
Sports and Entertainment

Racing Royalty: A Recap of the 2025 Pegasus World Cup

Where Celebrities, Luxury, and World-Class Horse Racing Converged in Miami

Caroline Dalal

(HALLANDALE BEACH, FL) — 1/ST’s Pegasus World Cup 2025 galloped into Gulfstream Park with all the elegance, excitement, and star power one expects from one of the most anticipated events on the luxury lifestyle calendar. A sold-out crowd of over 10,000 flocked to witness this grand spectacle on Saturday, January 25, showcasing the perfect synergy of horse racing, high fashion, celebrity appearances, and exclusive experiences.

Crowning Champions: Thrilling Races and Million-Dollar Moments

White Abarrio, Jockey Irad Ortiz Jr.

The highlight of the day was the $3 million Pegasus World Cup Invitational (GI), where White Abarrio, trained by Saffie Joseph Jr. and ridden by Irad Ortiz Jr., emerged victorious. This winning trio celebrated with the coveted Baccarat Pegasus Championship Trophy, valued at $47,000, presented by Belinda Stronach, Chairman and CEO of 1/ST.

Equally riveting was the $1 million Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational (GI), won by Spirit of St Louis, trained by Chad Brown and expertly ridden by Tyler Gaffalione. In the $500,000 Pegasus World Cup Filly & Mare Turf Invitational (G2), Be Your Best, trained by Saffie Joseph Jr. and ridden by Edgard Zayas, claimed victory. All winners toasted their success with glasses of Champagne Pommery, adding a sparkling touch to the celebrations.

Star-Studded Spectacle: Celebrities in the Spotlight

The Pegasus World Cup was as much about its star-studded guest list as its races. Among the notable attendees were Mike Tyson, who delivered the official "Rider’s Up" call, Winnie Harlow, Peso Pluma, and Ja Rule. Sports luminaries like Paul Pogba, Ray Lewis, and Jaelan Phillips mingled with entertainment heavyweights such as Lele Pons, Sistine and Sophia Stallone, and Dave Portnoy.

The event also attracted a dynamic lineup of influencers and content creators, including Christian Acosta, Batsheva Haart, and Compton Cowboys, who shared glimpses of the festivities with their extensive audiences.

Decadent Dining and VIP Indulgence

Guests were treated to exceptional culinary offerings courtesy of Groot Hospitality, with trackside menus featuring delights from hotspots like Gekkō, Komodo, and Papi Steak. The Carousel Club elevated the experience with signature cocktails, including the Pegasus Paloma and Pink Jockey, alongside premium Whispering Angel rosé.

Adding a distinctly Miami flair, SirDavis American Whisky debuted its luxury-focused SirDavis Garden, complete with bespoke cocktails, gourmet cuisine, and a striking seven-foot horse statue showcasing its brand’s elegance.

Performances to Remember

Black Coffee

The entertainment lineup was equally impressive, with Black Coffee and Diplo delivering electrifying DJ sets that kept the energy high. Singer-songwriter Dasha made a memorable entrance on horseback before captivating the audience with her hit song, Austin. Meanwhile, jazz artist Brian Newman, known for his collaborations with Lady Gaga, added a sophisticated touch to the day’s musical offerings.

The Off To The Races Fashion Show

Krystyna Laukien, Toni Dorsanvil, Stefania Mogollon, & Iva Jaksic

In the lead-up to race day, the Off To The Races Fashion Show, presented in partnership with Neiman Marcus and Bal Harbour Shops, stole the spotlight. Held on January 16, the event featured designs by iconic houses such as Dolce & Gabbana, Tom Ford, and Oscar de la Renta, benefiting Miami-based charity Style Saves. The evening raised $25,000 for students in need, reinforcing the Pegasus World Cup’s commitment to giving back.

Betting Big: A Record-Breaking Year

2025 Pegasus World Cup

With $41.7 million wagered across the day’s 13-race program, the Pegasus World Cup demonstrated its unrivaled appeal. The Pegasus World Cup Invitational alone drew over $7 million in bets—a 5% increase from 2024—further solidifying its place as a premier event in horse racing and luxury entertainment.

A Legacy of Excellence

White Abarrio, Jockey Irad Ortiz Jr.

Belinda Stronach summarized the day’s success:

“The 2025 Pegasus World Cup was a success by all measures. From the stellar race card to the sold-out crowd and incredible partnerships, this year’s event set a new bar for luxury in sports and entertainment.”

Whether it was the thrilling finishes, exclusive hospitality experiences, or the glamour of the guests, the Pegasus World Cup 2025 reaffirmed its status as a pinnacle of sophistication and excitement.

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