Breeders’ Cup 2026: Trainers Baffert and O’Brien Chase Record

Trainers Bob Baffert and Aidan O’Brien enter the 2026 Breeders’ Cup at Keeneland tied with 21 career wins each, the most in the event's history. The next trainer to secure a victory will claim the outright record.

Baffert is fielding six runners, primarily on dirt, including the undefeated Hughes, who is the 1-1 morning-line favorite for the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile. O’Brien is bringing ten runners, all competing on turf, with notable contenders including Sun Goddess and Diamond Necklace.

The Breeders’ Cup Classic features a competitive field of eight, headlined by the defending champion and 2-1 favorite Forever Young. Other key entrants include Sovereignty, a former Horse of the Year, and Golden Tempo.

Other major races include the Breeders’ Cup Distaff, where Nitrogen is the favorite, and the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint, which features European challengers such as Comanche Brave.