Sovereignty Tops NTRA Poll, Breeders' Cup Classic Participation Uncertain Due to Illness

Sovereignty, the dominant 3-year-old Thoroughbred of 2025 and winner of the Kentucky Derby, Belmont Stakes, and Travers Stakes, is the 6-5 morning line favorite for the upcoming Breeders' Cup Classic at Del Mar. Despite his commanding season and top ranking, Sovereignty's participation in the Classic is uncertain due to a recent fever, with trainer Bill Mott monitoring his condition closely before deciding if he will run. The 42nd running of the Breeders' Cup Classic promises a star-studded field, including last year's Classic winner Sierra Leone, Pacific Classic winner Fierceness, and notable contenders like Mindframe and Journalism, making this edition one of the most competitive in recent history. Sovereignty's connections opted to skip the Preakness Stakes to focus on major races like the Belmont and Travers, which he won decisively, highlighting a strategic campaign to secure Horse of the Year honors. The race features nine Grade 1 winners with combined earnings exceeding $44 million, underscoring the depth and quality of the competition. Trainer Mott emphasizes the race's difficulty, noting the strong chances of many entrants, but Sovereignty remains the standout favorite if he recovers in time.