Breeders’ Cup expands global ‘Win and You’re In’ series for 2026

Breeders’ Cup has confirmed that 14 countries across five continents will host ‘Win and You’re In’ qualifiers in 2026 as the Challenge Series celebrates its 20th anniversary.

The international schedule features 45 races in Argentina, Canada, Chile, England, France, Ireland, Japan, Peru, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates, the United States and Uruguay.

The North American portion, including Canadian races, will be announced in spring once racing calendars are finalised.

Breeders’ Cup has allocated a record $6.5 million in free entry fees for this year’s qualifiers, guaranteeing winners a starting position at the 43rd Breeders’ Cup World Championships at Keeneland in Lexington, Kentucky on October 30-31.

“Global participation is a cornerstone of the Breeders’ Cup, and the Challenge Series remains the premier pathway for horsemen worldwide to secure automatic qualification for the World Championships,” said Dora Delgado, Executive Vice President and Chief Racing Officer of Breeders’ Cup Limited.

The 2026 series began in December with Obataye earning a berth in the Breeders’ Cup Turf via Argentina’s G1 Gran Premio International Carlos Pellegrini. Herr Kitten followed on January 6, winning Uruguay’s G3 Gran Premio Pedro Pineyrua to secure a spot in the $1 million Dirt Mile.