The inaugural running of the Pegasus World Cup Invitational Stakes occurred in January 2017. At that time, each entrant participating in the race ponied up a fee of $1 million; the overall purse was $12 million. These days, an entry fee no longer exists, and the purse is now $3 million—still one of the top prizes in horse racing.
Although some things have changed, what hasn’t is a slew of horses (12, to be precise) vying to win to win one of America’s most prestigious races. The race is filled with a Kentucky Derby winner, Breeders’ Cup Classic winner, and multiple Grade 1 and Grade 2 victors.
My selection is White Abarrio, who was sensational back in 2023, but didn’t have the same magic in 2024. He appeared to regain his old form with a pair of good efforts at the end of last year. Early January workouts indicate progression, however. He also returns to his former trainer Saffie Joseph Jr., who won at a 25% clip last year.
This is how I’ll play the race:
Pegasus World Cup Picks
Win/Place: White Abarrio
Exacta Key: White Abarrio on top with Locked, Saudi Crown, Stronghold, Skippylongstocking, and Steal Sunshine all in the second position. I’ll also reverse it using Locked, Saudi Crown, Stronghold and Skippylongstocking on top and White Abarrio in the second position.
There are also two additional Pegasus races associated with the card: the Pegasus World Cup Filly & Mare Turf Invitational (10th race) and the Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational (12th race).
Filly & Mare Turf Picks
Exacta Box: Be Your Best, Fluffy Socks, Sacred Wish, and Bless My Stars
World Cup Turf Picks
Win/Place: Nations Pride
Exacta Key: Nations Pride on top with Formidable Man, Mi Hermano Ramon, Integration, Spirit of St Louis & Battle of Normandy, all in the second position
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Lines and odds subject to change.
Johnny Avello is an employee of DraftKings. Personal views on the races and strategies above do not necessarily reflect the view(s) of DraftKings and do not constitute a representation that any particular strategy will guarantee success. All customers should use their own skills and judgment in selecting their horses to wager upon. DraftKings employees may also deploy different strategies than what is recommended above. DraftKings employees do not have access to any non-public information.
