Sprinting sensation Ka Ying Rising [128] leads the first edition of the Longines World’s Best Racehorse Rankings for 2026.

Ka Ying Rising began the year with a 1 ¼-length victory over Helios Express [117] in the Centenary Sprint Cup. He then defeated that same rival by 3 1/2 lengths in the Queen's Silver Jubilee Cup. Ka Ying Rising has now won 18 consecutive races.

Romantic Warrior [124] is currently the second highest rated horse in the world. He started 2026 by winning the Stewards' Cup by 1 3/4 lengths over Lucky Sweynesse. In his next start, Romantic Warrior won the Citi Hong Kong Gold Cup by four lengths over Ensued.

Forever Young [123] is ranked third following his victory in the Saudi Cup. In his season debut, Forever Young defeated Nysos [121] by a length to take the Saudi Cup for the second time.  Nysos is the fifth highest rated horse off his runner-up finish.