The $1 million FanDuel Pacific Classic Stakes has been a highlight of the Del Mar summer season since the first edition, won by Best Pal in 1991. The Pacific Classic also is a key steppingstone to the $7 million Longines Breeders’ Cup Classic as a Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series “Win and You’re In” qualifying race guaranteeing the winner an expenses-paid berth to the marquee race of the Breeders’ Cup at the same track and 1 1/4-mile distance.

This year’s edition is expected to draw a terrific field headlined by Preakness Stakes winner Journalism; multiple Grade 1 winner Fierceness, runner-up in the 2024 Breeders’ Cup Classic; and rising star 3-year-old and San Diego Handicap winner Nysos. 

Let’s take a closer look at the 2025 Pacific Classic hopefuls with a nice profile image, workout image, and racing image when available. The horses are shown in order of on-track accomplishment, beginning with Journalism, and images for any additional entrants will be added once the full field is drawn.