Approaching its 43^rd running on Oct. 31, the Longines Breeders’ Cup Classic is well-established as one of Thoroughbred racing’s most prestigious contests, often the deciding factor in determining Horse of the Year.

The 2026 edition should be a truly star-studded affair if all of the horses scheduled to participate as of Oct. 20 end up running. The $7 million race features the defending race winner and leading all-time earner in Japan’s Forever Young, the reigning Horse of the Year in Sovereignty, 3-year-old winners of the Triple Crown races, and other accomplished racehorses.

In advance of the 2026 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 the contenders in advance of what should be a memorable Breeders’ Cup Classic at Keeneland!