The 2025 Arlington Million Stakes is poised to be one of the most anticipated turf races of the summer, carrying on the rich legacy of this Grade I fixture. With a $1 million purse and a field stacked with 8 contenders, some proving their worth on turf, others seeking glory for the first time, the Arlington Million stands as a captivating and exciting turf race. This article delivers everything you need: how to watch the event from home, viewing arrangements, historical perspective, weather insights, the full field with odds, and a thorough breakdown of each horse’s chances.
Understanding recent champions provides context for this year’s field:
This illustrious roll call underscores the Arlington Million’s reputation as a career-defining event for turf stalwarts and rising international stars alike.
New Kent County, United States
![]() ![]() | 80°61° | Pleasant with periods of clouds and sunshine |
![]() ![]() | 82°60° | Mostly sunny and nice |
The weather widget above shows the forecast for New Kent County, VA. On race day (Saturday, August 9), conditions are expected to be mostly sunny and ideal, with highs near 82°F (28 °C) and low humidity, perfect for firm turf and fast final times. Horses with a sharp turn of foot and late-closing prowess are likely to benefit most in these favorable conditions.
Here’s the complete eight-horse field lined up for the running:
Post | Horse | Odds |
---|---|---|
1 | Mystik Dan | 9/2 |
2 | Time Song | 30/1 |
3 | Vesting | 12/1 |
4 | Runaway Storm | 20/1 |
5 | Cairo | 7/2 |
6 | Fort Washington | 4/1 |
7 | Grand Sonata | 8/1 |
8 | Integration | 8/5 |
A standout in this lineup, Mystik Dan, the 2024 Kentucky Derby champion, makes his turf debut in this race. Trained by Kenneth McPeek and ridden by Brian Hernandez Jr., he brings high-class form from dirt routes, fresh off a G3 win in the Blame Stakes and a respectable 4th in the G1 Stephen Foster Stakes. His versatile running style and pedigree offer captivating upside on grass.
Listed at a lofty 30/1, Time Song is an early pace influencer with limited form visibility. While unlikely to figure in the late stages, he could help shape the race tempo for others.
With morning-line odds of 12/1, Vesting runs for trainer Michael Maker with Javier Castellano in the irons. Likely an Irish-bred adopter of turf routes, he brings depth to exotics but lacks prominent coverage this week.
At 20/1, Runaway Storm draws attention primarily as another early pace prospect. Pressing or dueling for position could force the pace into a tussle, beneficial for hold-up closers.
At 7/2, Cairo stands out as the second betting choice behind the favorite. Though winless in 14 starts, his consistency and presence near the favorite make him a solid threat. Trainer A. Haynes and Ben Curtis bring experience, and he’s rumored to be the main challenger to Integration.
With 4/1 odds, Fort Washington is trainer Shug McGaughey’s other strong entry. Known for tactical speed and durability, he’s a legitimate contender to make the stretch run a two-horse duel.
A reliable value option at 8/1, Grand Sonata is consistent and effective going long on turf. His recent runner-up effort in the G2 United Nations Stakes shows he's battle-ready, and while cross-entered in the Sword Dancer, indications suggest he’ll stay here.
The 8/5 favorite, Integration, is a Grade I-proven turf finisher with a powerful closing kick. Returning to Colonial Downs, where he’s had notable success, and fresh off a near-win in the G1 Manhattan Stakes, he’s the clear horse to beat, especially from the strong post 8 under John Velazquez.
This edition of the Arlington Million Stakes promises to be a true summer classic:
The writing team at US Racing is comprised of both full-time and part-time contributors with expertise in various aspects of the Sport of Kings.