The Breeders' Cup World Championships represent the absolute zenith of global Thoroughbred racing, and the $2 million Breeders' Cup Mile (G1) consistently delivers one of the most thrilling turf contests on the planet. This race annually pits the best grass milers from Europe, North America, and Japan against each other, creating a betting puzzle rich with international complexity and high-stakes drama.
Check the Breeders’ Cup schedule for “Championship Saturday”
| Race | Race Name | Post Time ET |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Sunrise (Allowance) | 1:05pm |
| 2 | The Ocean View (Allowance) | 1:40pm |
| 3 | Goldikova Stakes (G3) | 2:15pm |
| 4 | Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Sprint (G1) | 3:00pm |
| 5 | Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint (G1) | 3:41pm |
| 6 | Breeders’ Cup Sprint (G1) | 4:21pm |
| 7 | Breeders' Cup Distaff (G1) | 5:01pm |
| 8 | Breeders’ Cup Turf (G1) | 5:41pm |
| 9 | Breeders' Cup Classic (G1) | 6:25pm |
| 10 | Breeders’ Cup Mile (G1) | 7:05pm |
| 11 | Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile | 7:45pm |
| 12 | Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf (G1) | 8:25pm |
This year, the spectacular Del Mar Thoroughbred Club in Southern California hosts the event for the second straight time, providing a stunning backdrop where "the turf meets the surf." We delve deep into the logistics, the track dynamics, the field's official Breeders' Cup Mile odds, and provide comprehensive analysis for every contender, offering you the actionable insight required to bet on Breeders' Cup Mile glory this fall successfully. Prepare to maximize your knowledge and optimize your wagers for Championship Saturday's featured turf sprint.
We recognize the high value of informed wagering and aim to equip you with the expertise needed to convert these early morning line prices into significant payouts. Understanding the track conditions, the historical context, and the subtle nuances of each contender is not just helpful; it is essential for anyone serious about Breeders' Cup Mile betting. The world awaits the declaration of the best miler, and we ensure you have the best possible information before you commit your bankroll.
Mark your calendars now for the peak event of the racing season. The 2025 Breeders' Cup World Championships run across two days: Future Stars Friday, October 31, and Championship Saturday, November 1, at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. The prestigious Breeders' Cup Mile will run as one of the pivotal events on Championship Saturday's spectacular nine-race card, demanding your full attention late in the afternoon.
The post time for the $2 million Breeders' Cup Mile is currently scheduled for 7:05 p.m. ET (4:05 p.m. PT) on Saturday, November 1. This timing places the Mile strategically just after the Breeders' Cup Classic, guaranteeing a massive viewing audience and intense wagering activity across all platforms. You definitely want to secure your wagers well in advance of the 7:05 p.m. post time, utilizing a reliable off-track betting platform to get the best pre-race Breeders' Cup Mile odds.
American viewers enjoy comprehensive coverage across the NBC family of networks. Live coverage for Championship Saturday commences at 2 p.m. ET on the USA Network and streaming platforms like BUSR Experience, before transitioning to NBC at 3:30 p.m. ET for the marquee races, and concluding again on the USA Network following the Classic. Ensure you check local listings and streaming service availability in advance. International audiences benefit from dedicated racing channels and streaming agreements that carry the signal worldwide, often with local commentary and specialized Breeders' Cup Mile betting segments tailored to regional markets, but the core time remains 7:05 p.m. ET.
Del Mar presents a truly unique challenge to international milers, demanding a distinct blend of early speed and tactical acumen. Affectionately known as "Where the Turf Meets the Surf," the track’s atmosphere is unmatched, yet its turf course mechanics are a critical factor in handicapping the race. The turf course is a tight-turning, mile-long oval that features a notoriously short stretch run, making early position absolutely paramount, particularly in a two-turn mile like the Breeders' Cup Mile.
The expected weather for Southern California in early November looks highly favorable, which simplifies, but does not eliminate, crucial track variables. Long-range forecasts project ideal conditions, with daytime high temperatures settled comfortably in the low 70s and zero chance of precipitation. These conditions virtually guarantee a fast main track and, most importantly for this race, a firm, "good-to-firm" turf course. A firm surface negates any concerns about horses handling soft ground, often favoring faster, more powerful closing kicks typical of American and Japanese runners, while allowing European shippers, many of whom compete on yielding ground back home, to show their best speed.
Crucially, the short stretch at Del Mar, measuring less than two furlongs, drastically reduces the time available for deep closers to rally. This track configuration strongly favors horses who can secure a forward position or a clean stalking trip around the tight second turn. Jockeys who save ground and position their mounts to strike at the top of the stretch hold a massive advantage. We see the draw, therefore, as exceptionally important, though the trend data from past Del Mar Breeders' Cups shows that top-tier talent can overcome wide draws if their riders are masters of pace management. Analyzing the current Breeders' Cup Mile odds with this track bias in mind reveals potential value in speed-oriented contenders.
The Breeders' Cup Mile boasts a history steeped in international greatness, crowning some of the turf world's true legends. No horse has dominated this event like the phenomenal French mare Goldikova, who achieved an unprecedented three consecutive victories from 2008 to 2010. Her ability to travel to various US tracks and deliver peak performances cemented her status as a global icon and a symbol of the race's international prestige. She remains the benchmark for future champions in the Breeders' Cup Mile.
Following in her footsteps, the incomparable American gelding Wise Dan stamped his own legacy on the race, winning back-to-back editions in 2012 and 2013. Wise Dan was a machine, known for his versatility and dominant speed figures, often entering the Breeders' Cup Mile betting discussion as an overwhelming favorite and delivering every time. His victories exemplify the highest level of North American turf talent. Later, the great American mare Tepin captured the imagination of the world, winning the 2015 Mile before conquering Royal Ascot the following summer. These horses elevate the race, reminding bettors they are wagering on champions.
| Year | Winner | Age | Jockey | Trainer | Owner | Win Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | More Than Looks | 4 | Jose Ortiz | Cherie DeVaux | Victory Racing Partners | 1:32.65 |
| 2023 | Master Of The Seas | 5 | William Buick | Charlie Appleby | Godolphin, LLC Lessee | 1:32.45 |
| 2022 | Modern Games | 3 | William Buick | Charlie Appleby | Godolphin, LLC Lessee | 1:33.96 |
| 2021 | Space Blues (IRE) | 5 | James Doyle | Charlie Appleby | Godolphin, LLC | 1:34.01 |
| 2019 | Uni | 5 | Joel Rosario | Chad Brown | Michael Dubb, Head of Plains Partners LLC, Haras d'Etreham, Bethlehem Stables | 1:32.45 |
| 2018 | Expert Eye | 3 | Frankie Dettori | Michael Stoute | Khalid Abdullah | 1:39.80 |
| 2017 | World Approval | 5 | John R. Velazquez | Mark E. Casse | Live Oak Plantation Racing | 1:34.55 |
| 2016 | Tourist | 5 | Joel Rosario | Bill Mott | Winstar Farm | 1:31.71 |
| 2015 | Tepin† | 4 | Julien Leparoux | Mark Casse | Robert E Masterson | 1:36.69 |
| 2014 | Karakontie | 3 | Stephane Pasquier | Jonathan Pease | Flaxman Holdings | 1:32.88 |
| 2013 | Wise Dan | 6 | Jose Lezcano | Charles Lopresti | Morton Fink | 1:32.47 |
| 2012 | Wise Dan | 5 | John Velazquez | Charles Lopresti | Morton Fink | 1:31.78 |
| 2011 | Court Vision | 6 | Robby Albarado | Dale Romans | Spendthrift Farm | 1:37:05 |
| 2010 | Goldikova† | 5 | Olivier Peslier | Freddy Head | Wertheimer et Frere | 1:35.16 |
| 2009 | Goldikova† | 4 | Olivier Peslier | Freddy Head | Wertheimer et Frere | 1:32.26 |
| 2008 | Goldikova† | 3 | Olivier Peslier | Freddy Head | Wertheimer et Frere | 1:33.40 |
| 2007 | Kip Deville | 4 | Cornelio Velasquez | Richard E. Dutrow, Jr. | IEAH Stables et al. | 1:39.78 |
| 2006 | Miesque's Approval | 7 | Eddie Castro | Martin D. Wolfson | Live Oak Plantation Racing | 1:34.75 |
| 2005 | Artie Schiller | 4 | Garrett Gomez | James A. Jerkens | Timber Bay Farm/Denise Walsh | 1:36.10 |
| 2004 | Singletary | 4 | David R. Flores | Don Chatlos | Little Red Feather Stables | 1:36.90 |
| 2003 | Six Perfections† | 3 | Jerry Bailey | Pascal Bary | Flaxman Holdings | 1:33.86 |
| 2002 | Domedriver | 4 | Thierry Thulliez | Pascal Bary | Flaxman Holdings | 1:36.88 |
| 2001 | Val Royal | 5 | Jose Valdivia, Jr. | Julio Canani | David S. Milch | 1:32.05 |
| 2000 | War Chant | 3 | Gary Stevens | Neil Drysdale | Irving & Marjorie Cowan | 1:34.60 |
| 1999 | Silic | 4 | Corey Nakatani | Julio Canani | J. Terrence Lanni | 1:34.20 |
| 1998 | Da Hoss | 6 | John Velazquez | Michael W. Dickinson | Prestonwood/Wallstreet Stables | 1:35.20 |
| 1997 | Spinning World | 4 | Cash Asmussen | Jonathan E. Pease | Flaxman Holdings | 1:32.60 |
| 1996 | Da Hoss | 4 | Gary Stevens | Michael W. Dickinson | Prestonwood/Wallstreet Stables | 1:35.80 |
| 1995 | Ridgewood Pearl† | 3 | Johnny Murtagh | John Oxx | Anne Coughlan | 1:43.60 |
| 1994 | Barathea | 4 | Frankie Dettori | Luca Cumani | G. W. Leigh | 1:34.40 |
| 1993 | Lure | 4 | Mike E. Smith | C. R. McGaughey III | Claiborne Farm | 1:33.40 |
| 1992 | Lure | 3 | Mike E. Smith | C. R. McGaughey III | Claiborne Farm/The Gamely Corp. | 1:32.80 |
| 1991 | Opening Verse | 5 | Pat Valenzuela | Richard J. Lundy | Allen E. Paulson | 1:37.40 |
| 1990 | Royal Academy | 3 | Lester Piggott | Vincent O'Brien | Classic Ire Stable | 1:35.20 |
| 1989 | Steinlen | 6 | José Santos | D. Wayne Lukas | Daniel Wildenstein | 1:37.20 |
| 1988 | Miesque† | 4 | Freddy Head | François Boutin | Stavros Niarchos | 1:38.60 |
| 1987 | Miesque† | 3 | Freddy Head | François Boutin | Stavros Niarchos | 1:32.80 |
| 1986 | Last Tycoon | 3 | Yves Saint-Martin | Robert Collet | Richard C. Strauss | 1:35.20 |
| 1985 | Cozzene | 5 | Walter Guerra | Jan H. Nerud | John A. Nerud | 1:35.00 |
| 1984 | Royal Heroine† | 4 | Fernando Toro | John Gosden | Robert Sangster | 1:32.60 |
More recently, the Godolphin stable and trainer Charlie Appleby have successfully dominated the Mile, claiming victories with horses like Space Blues, Modern Games, and Master Of The Seas. Their consistent success highlights the preparation advantage and class edge European raiders often possess in this division. The fastest race time belongs to Tourist, who blistered the Santa Anita turf in 1:31.71 in 2016. Every past winner demonstrates that the Mile demands a horse who combines explosive speed with the fortitude to negotiate two demanding turns under immense pressure, a critical element to consider when you decide to bet on Breeders' Cup Mile contenders this year.
The 2025 edition of the Breeders' Cup Mile draws a deep and competitive field of thirteen elite runners, creating a complex but rewarding puzzle for savvy bettors. The morning line Breeders' Cup Mile odds reveal a clear favorite, but the market also contains plenty of mid-priced contenders and legitimate longshots, offering excellent opportunities for value-seeking. This global collection of talent—from Dubawi's progeny representing Europe to Grade 1 winners from North America and Japan—guarantees a thrilling contest that commands attention.
| PP | Horse | Fractional | American |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | One Stripe (SAF) | 30/1 | +3000 |
| 2 | Notable Speech (GB) | 5/2 | +250 |
| 3 | Sahlan (IRE) | 6/1 | +600 |
| 4 | The Lion in Winter (IRE) | 6/1 | +600 |
| 5 | Program Trading (GB) | 10/1 | +1000 |
| 6 | Gran Oriente (CHI) | 30/1 | +3000 |
| 7 | Johannes | 8/1 | +800 |
| 8 | Formidable Man | 10/1 | +1000 |
| 9 | Argine (JPN) | 20/1 | +2000 |
| 10 | Jonquil (GB) | 10/1 | +1000 |
| 11 | Rhetorical | 5/1 | +500 |
| 12 | Gas Me Up | 30/1 | +3000 |
| 13 | Qirat (GB) | 20/1 | +2000 |
Last Updated on 10/30/2025
The favorite, Notable Speech, carries the weight of history and expectation. Yet, several others sit close behind in the single-digit odds range, suggesting a tightly contested battle for the top spot. Chad Brown’s Program Trading, the American Grade 1 winner Rhetorical, and the potent Aidan O’Brien challenger The Lion In Winter all present credible threats, demanding equal scrutiny. Understanding the different running styles—from confirmed front-runners to powerful deep closers—and assessing how those styles will adapt to the demanding Del Mar turf course is the key to unlocking the right selections and maximizing your Breeders' Cup Mile betting returns.
Trainer Charlie Appleby and jockey William Buick have an established, devastating record in the Breeders' Cup Mile, and Notable Speech arrives as the overwhelming morning-line favorite at 5/2. This four-year-old chestnut colt boasts a formidable pedigree by Dubawi. He has demonstrated world-class form, including a sensational victory in the Woodbine Mile (G1), a major Win and You're In event, cementing his status at the top of the Breeders' Cup Mile odds board.
Appleby prepares his horses specifically for this challenge, and Notable Speech possesses the high cruising speed and professional demeanor required to navigate Del Mar's tight turns. Buick, who seeks his fourth win in this race, knows exactly how to get the job done on a quick American surface, making this colt the class of the field and the obvious horse to beat.
The leading domestic contender is Rhetorical, bringing a strong 5/1 morning line into the race. Trainer W. Walden sends out this four-year-old gelding, who showed immense tactical speed when winning the Coolmore Turf Mile (G1) at Keeneland, punching his ticket to Del Mar. Ridden by the fiercely aggressive Irad Ortiz, Jr., Rhetorical's gate speed and ability to dictate pace make him a perfect fit for Del Mar’s unique geometry.
Ortiz must utilize that speed to secure a rail-skimming, forward position from post 11, minimizing ground loss before making a decisive move into the short stretch. His recent Grade 1 form ensures he is not only competitive but a major win threat, offering excellent value in the Breeders' Cup Mile odds relative to the favorite.
European shippers always demand respect, and French conditioner Francis-Henri Graffard presents Sahlan, a three-year-old colt receiving a significant weight allowance against his older rivals. Jockey Mickael Barzalona pilots the 6/1 contender, whose form includes success against top company in France. Three-year-olds have historically performed well in the Mile when receiving this concession.
Graffard is known for preparing horses that peak on the day, and Sahlan’s potential upside suggests he could significantly outperform his current price. Bettors see him as a strong alternative to the favorite, making him a critical component for all exotic Breeders' Cup Mile betting wagers.
Aidan O'Brien, the master of Ballydoyle, fields another formidable challenger in The Lion In Winter, also a three-year-old colt attracting attention at 6/1. Christophe Soumillon, one of the world's most talented riders, takes the reins. While O’Brien famously won the Mile with a longshot in 2020, this colt enters with a more substantial profile, likely showing top-level European form, possibly a strong run in a late-season Group 1.
O'Brien excels at preparing European runners for the US travel and firm turf, and Soumillon's tactical intelligence perfectly complements the challenging Del Mar course. Ignoring this stable in any Breeders' Cup Mile is generally a recipe for disappointment.
A local favorite with a potent late-season surge, Johannes earned his spot with a gutsy victory in the City of Hope Mile (G2) at Santa Anita. Trainer Tim Yakteen prepares the five-year-old horse for its biggest career test, and Umberto Rispoli, known for his prowess on the Southern California circuit, takes the ride.
Johannes’s familiarity with the tighter US-style turf tracks gives him an edge over some of the European imports. He needs a fair pace to run at, but if Rispoli navigates a ground-saving trip, Johannes offers a tempting opportunity to bet on Breeders' Cup Mile success with a generous 8/1 quote.
Trainer Chad Brown, a perennial leader in American turf racing, presents Program Trading, a five-year-old gelding holding steady at 10/1. Flavien Prat rides, ensuring a fabulous, calculated trip. Program Trading, a past Grade 1 winner, ran a strong campaign leading into the Mile, likely demonstrating versatility on multiple surfaces or distances.
Brown's horses always fire in these races, and Program Trading represents a slightly overlooked domestic talent who could deliver a massive payout if he finds his best stride on the day. Do not overlook this 10/1 shot when constructing your exotics.
Hall of Fame jockey John R. Velazquez partners with Formidable Man for trainer Michael W. McCarthy at 10/1. This four-year-old colt represents solid US turf form, likely competing well in major East Coast or Midwest prep races. Velázquez knows the Del Mar course intimately, having won multiple Breeders' Cup races here.
His expertise in maneuvering around the two tight turns is a huge asset. The combined class of jockey and trainer makes Formidable Man a dangerous proposition and a must-include in any comprehensive plan for Breeders' Cup Mile betting, offering a significant return on investment.
Trainer Andrew Balding sends out Jonquil, a well-regarded British three-year-old colt, partnered with the respected Colin T. Keane. Listed at 10/1, Jonquil has the weight advantage of a sophomore and carries the benefit of tough European competition.
Balding often brings horses who fly under the radar but possess plenty of class and speed. Jonquil will need a perfect trip from Keane, but his strong early Breeders' Cup Mile odds position him as a superb value play in the middle of the pack for bettors seeking a higher-priced winner.
Stepping up the price range, Qirat enters the discussion at 20/1 for trainer R. Beckett and jockey Richard Ryan. This four-year-old gelding has shown flashes of brilliance overseas, and Beckett often excels with high-class European horses traveling to America.
Though the post position may not be ideal, the 20/1 price offers compelling each-way value, making him a fascinating inclusion for those who like to bet on Breeders' Cup Mile dark horses with international form.
The Japanese contingent adds an exciting layer of uncertainty and potential value. Argine, a five-year-old mare trained by M. Nakauchida, is partnered with the legendary Lanfranco "Frankie" Dettori, a significant factor at 20/1. Dettori’s presence alone ensures this mare will receive significant attention at the betting windows.
Japanese milers are renowned for their speed and consistency on firm turf, and Argine, though a mare taking on males, could surprise the favorites if Dettori works his magic and secures a favorable position early.
At the longest price on the board, One Stripe represents the deep longshot play at 30/1. Trainer H. Graham Motion, who possesses a solid record in Breeders' Cup turf races, fields the four-year-old colt, ridden by J. J. Hernandez.
The 30/1 Breeders' Cup Mile odds reflect a significant leap in class, but Motion excels at peaking horses for a single day. If the pace collapses, One Stripe might be the one picking up the pieces, offering immense value for those willing to take a flyer on a major longshot in the superfecta.
Hailing from Chile, Gran Oriente enters the race with a 30/1 morning line for trainer Juan M. Alvarez and jockey H. I. Berrios. The South American form is notoriously difficult to gauge against European and American Group 1 performers, but these horses often exhibit high endurance and determination.
While the class step-up is immense, Gran Oriente serves as a true wildcard for extreme longshot Breeders' Cup Mile betting wagers, especially in the fourth spot of vertical exotics.
Trainer Kevin Attard sends out the Canadian-bred Gas Me Up, ridden by Joel L. Ortiz. This five-year-old gelding may represent a local Grade 1 winner, but the 30/1 price suggests a tough challenge against this caliber of international competition.
He will need to show career-best speed figures and overcome a tough wide draw, but Ortiz can certainly give him the tactical ride required to challenge for a minor share if the pace is hot.
A strong understanding of the Breeders' Cup Mile odds is your first step toward success, but smart wagering requires strategic action. The sheer size and quality of this field make it an ideal race for exotic wagering, providing the opportunity for massive returns even if a favorite wins. Focusing solely on the win pool overlooks the huge value available in exacta, trifecta, and superfecta wagers.
We highly recommend constructing exactas around the favorite, Notable Speech (5/2), pairing him with high-value alternatives like Rhetorical (5/1) and Sahlan (6/1). For trifectas, consider keying the favorite on top, but significantly expanding the horses you use for second and third place, bringing in mid-priced runners like Johannes (8/1) and Formidable Man (10/1). For the ambitious bettor who wants to bet on Breeders' Cup Mile glory with a huge score, including the 20/1 shots Argine and Qirat in the lower slots of your superfecta, significantly multiplies your potential return without requiring you to risk money on a straight win bet. Reviewing the updated Breeders' Cup Mile betting market right before post time is crucial, as late money often provides the most accurate indicator of a horse's chances.
The 2025 Breeders' Cup Mile at Del Mar presents a captivating challenge, demanding both global insight and local tactical knowledge. We have dissected the schedule, highlighted the tight track's biases, celebrated the past winners, and, most importantly, provided a detailed, comprehensive analysis of every contender's Breeders' Cup Mile odds, jockey, and trainer.
The race ultimately comes down to class and trip; Notable Speech has the class, but the Del Mar turf demands a near-perfect trip. Rhetorical and Sahlan offer compelling value and superior tactical positions. Do not simply watch this race; use this analysis to engage with the most prestigious turf mile event in the world. Stay tuned to US Racing, leverage our expert analysis, and prepare to place your winning bets on Championship Saturday. This is your chance to turn expert insight into substantial profit—do not miss the opportunity to elevate your Breeders' Cup Mile betting experience to the championship level.
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.
