The Franklin-Simpson Stakes is a Grade I horse race event, as a turf sprint race, it offers bettors a unique opportunity to wager on young, fast horses at the peak of their racing careers. The race is held at Kentucky Downs, which is known for its challenging turf course, adding an extra layer of excitement and unpredictability to the betting experience.
The 2026 Franklin-Simpson Stakes is scheduled to take place on September 5th. This Grade 1 event is a key race in the horse racing calendar, attracting top 3-year-old turf sprinters from around the country.
The Franklin-Simpson Stakes has seen several notable winners since its inception. Among the early champions, Master Merion (2017) stands out, trained by Wesley A. Ward and ridden by Julio A. Garcia. Another remarkable winner is Legends of War (2019), ridden by Rafael Bejarano and trained by Doug F. O’Neill.
| Year | Winner | Jockey | Trainer | Owner | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Troubleshooting | Tyler Gaffalione | Gregory D. Foley | Donamire Farm | 1:14.33 |
| 2024 | Howard Wolowitz | Irad Ortiz Jr. | Jose Francisco D'Angelo | Gold Square LLC | 1:14.20 |
| 2023 | Private Creed | Joel Rosario | Steven M. Asmussen | Mike McCarty | 1:17.03 |
| 2022 | One Timer | Edward T. Baird | Larry Rivelli | Richard Ravin & Patricia's Hope | 1:14.59 |
| 2021 | The Lir Jet | Tyler Gaffalione | Brendan P. Walsh | Qatar Racing and Racehorse Club | 1:15.38 |
| 2020 | Guildsman (FR) | Tyler Gaffalione | Brendan P. Walsh | Qatar Racing | 1:15.87 |
Kentucky Downs is renowned for its unique European-style turf course, which adds an extra challenge to races like the Franklin-Simpson Stakes. The track’s layout, with its undulating terrain and long stretch run, makes it a favorite among turf specialists and provides an exciting spectacle for fans. For online horse betting, the distinctive nature of Kentucky Downs often leads to unpredictable outcomes, increasing the potential for lucrative wagers.
