The main event is less than two weeks away! A stellar field is set to start in the $7 million Longines Breeders’ Cup Classic Nov. 1 at Del Mar, and if the current list of contenders ends up meeting in the 1 ¼-mile test with no late defections, it should be one of the most competitive editions of the Classic in the event’s history.

The top three finishers from last year’s Longines Classic (also held at Del Mar) are pointing to another start: Sierra Leone, Fierceness, and Forever Young. What’s more, the leading trio of 3-year-old runners – Sovereignty, Journalism, and Baeza – also are targeting the Classic. It’s a must-watch event that will go a long way toward determining the 2025 Horse of the Year recipient at the Eclipse Awards in January.

UPDATE: Sovereignty spiked a fever on Tuesday and was scratched from the Breeders’ Cup Classic on Wednesday morning. Hall of Fame trainer Bill Mott said he would not run the 2025 Kentucky Derby, Belmont Stakes, and Travers Stakes winner at anything less than 100%.

In advance of the 2025 Longines Classic, we've compiled a slideshow of the contenders with a profile image, a workout photo, and a racing photo when available to give readers a look at these outstanding athletes both when relaxing and competing.

Get to know these potential Horse of the Year candidates advance of what should be an exciting race at the Breeders’ Cup!