What is the Florida Derby?
The Florida Derby is a prominent Grade I Thoroughbred horse race held annually at Gulfstream Park in Hallandale Beach, Florida.
It is a major event on the road to the Kentucky Derby, offering qualifying points to top finishers. Open to three-year-old horses, the race is contested over a distance of 1 1/8 miles (9 furlongs) on dirt and has been a stepping stone for many Kentucky Derby champions.
When does the Florida Derby take place?
The Florida Derby typically takes place in late March or early April. It serves as one of the final prep races on the Road to the Kentucky Derby, positioning it as a critical event for horses aiming to secure a spot in the Run for the Roses.
Florida Derby Winners
Among the most notable winners is Spectacular Bid (1979), a Hall of Fame inductee who dominated the racing scene and captured the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes. Barbaro (2006) also stands out, as his undefeated record entering the Kentucky Derby and subsequent victory there made him a fan favorite and symbol of resilience despite his tragic injury.
Nyquist (2016) continued the tradition of Florida Derby winners excelling on the national stage by clinching the Kentucky Derby.
| Year | Winner | Jockey | Trainer | Owner | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | TBD | TBD | TBD | TBD | TBD |
| 2024 | Fierceness | John R. Velazquez | Todd A. Pletcher | Repole Stable | 1:48.22 |
| 2023 | Forte | Irad Ortiz Jr. | Todd A. Pletcher | Repole Stable & St. Elias Stable | 1:49.37 |
| 2022 | White Abarrio | Tyler Gaffalione | Saffie A. Joseph Jr. | C2 Racing Stable & La Milagrosa Stable | 1:50.64 |
| 2021 | Known Agenda | Irad Ortiz Jr. | Todd A. Pletcher | St. Elias Stable | 1:49.45 |
| 2020 | Tiz the Law | Manny Franco | Barclay Tagg | Sackatoga Stable | 1:50.00 |
