The 2025 Sword Dancer Stakes is shaping up to be one of the summer’s most exciting turf marathons. Scheduled for Saturday, August 9, at Saratoga Race Course, this Grade 1 event covers 1½ miles on turf and offers a coveted “Win and You’re In” berth to the Breeders’ Cup Turf, along with a $750,000 purse.
With a blend of proven Grade 1 performers and intriguing new challengers, the 2025 Sword Dancer promises a high-stakes showdown. While longshots like Utah Beach (8/1) and Rebel Red (15/1) could play a role early, the finish will likely be dominated by seasoned closers and class-tested runners.
However, all eyes will be on the three marquee names: Far Bridge, Nations Pride, and El Cordobes.
If you’re only betting on one horse in the 2025 Sword Dancer Stakes, make it Far Bridge. The morning-line favorite is looking to repeat last year’s victory and enters in top form after a decisive win in the Bowling Green (G2) at Saratoga.
Now trained by Miguel Clement, Far Bridge boasts exceptional tactical speed and stamina, making him perfectly suited for this long-distance turf test. Jockey Joel Rosario knows the Saratoga turf inside out and could tie the all-time record for Sword Dancer wins.
Why bet on Far Bridge?
If you’re building a trifecta or exacta ticket, Far Bridge is your anchor.
Nations Pride, trained by Charlie Appleby, arrives from overseas with a stellar resume that includes multiple Grade 1 wins at similar distances. Although he faltered in the Dubai Turf earlier this year, his previous form shows he has the talent and staying power to be a serious threat here.
His ability to adapt to different pace scenarios and unleash a sustained drive in the stretch makes him dangerous, especially if the Saratoga turf is firm.
Why bet on Nations Pride?
For bettors seeking value, Nations Pride is a must-include in exotics.
For those looking for a fresh face in the Sword Dancer mix, El Cordobes is the one to watch. Another Charlie Appleby trainee, this four-year-old son of Frankel, recently captured the Princess of Wales’s Stakes (G2) at Newmarket with authority.
His running style, settling mid-pack before unleashing a late burst, should translate well to Saratoga’s sweeping turns and long stretch.
Why bet on El Cordobes?
El Cordobes offers enough upside to be a live contender in trifectas and superfectas.
The 2025 Sword Dancer Stakes will be held on Saturday, August 9, at Saratoga Race Course, with a projected post time of 5:44 p.m. ET. The race will be broadcast live on major racing networks and streaming platforms.
Check a full guide on How to Watch and Bet on the 2025 Sword Dancer Stakes
To bet on the Sword Dancer Stakes online, check out BUSR racebook, offering fixed odds, live video, and exotic bet types like exactas, trifectas, and superfectas.
If you’re looking for Sword Dancer betting picks, focus your wagers around Far Bridge, the proven marathon turf star. Pair him with Nations Pride, the international challenger with world-class form, and El Cordobes, the up-and-coming European threat.
Whether you’re placing a win bet, daily double, or pick 4, these three horses give you the best chance to cash in on one of Saratoga’s signature turf events.
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.
