Jockey Changes for Breeders' Cup Classic: Prat Rides Magnitude, Ortiz Stays with Golden Tempo
In a significant shift ahead of the prestigious $7 million Breeders' Cup Classic, celebrated jockey Flavien Prat is set to take the reins of Magnitude. This decision came about after José Ortiz opted to remain loyal to his long-standing mount, Golden Tempo, the victor of both the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes. Trainer Steve Asmussen, for Magnitude, conveyed his astonishment regarding Ortiz's choice, while Ortiz's agent clarified that the decision was influenced by the future racing prospects of both horses.
Prat, a jockey with an impressive track record including two previous Breeders' Cup Classic triumphs and two Eclipse Awards, brings a wealth of experience to Magnitude. He is scheduled to conduct a crucial workout with the colt at Keeneland. Meanwhile, Golden Tempo, under the guidance of trainer Cherie DeVaux, continues its preparation for the Classic, having recently competed in the Travers Stakes. This jockey change adds an intriguing dynamic to the highly anticipated race.
Prat Takes Over Magnitude's Reins for Breeders' Cup Classic
Flavien Prat, a highly acclaimed jockey, is now confirmed to ride Magnitude in the illustrious $7 million Breeders' Cup Classic. This significant development follows José Ortiz's decision to continue his successful partnership with Golden Tempo, the reigning champion of the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes. Magnitude's trainer, Steve Asmussen, openly admitted his surprise at Ortiz's unexpected choice. Prat's appointment brings considerable experience to Magnitude's campaign, as he boasts a remarkable record of two prior victories in the Breeders' Cup Classic and has earned the prestigious Eclipse Award as outstanding jockey in both 2024 and 2025. This change promises an exciting new chapter for Magnitude as it heads into one of horse racing's most anticipated events.
The shift to Flavien Prat for Magnitude's Breeders' Cup Classic appearance underscores a strategic move in the highly competitive world of horse racing. Prat's proven ability to perform under pressure and his familiarity with the Breeders' Cup environment make him a formidable choice. He will soon begin working with Magnitude at Keeneland, a critical period for establishing their partnership and fine-tuning the horse's race-day readiness. Magnitude, having not raced since its victory in the Stephen Foster, has been strategically trained for this event, indicating a focused approach from Asmussen's stable. The decision by Ortiz to stick with Golden Tempo, a horse with whom he shares a deep history and recent Classic preparation, highlights the strong bonds and strategic considerations often influencing jockey selections in major races. This sets the stage for an intriguing contest, with both horses and their riders aiming for glory.
Ortiz Remains Loyal to Golden Tempo, Trainer Explains Strategic Choice
José Ortiz has affirmed his commitment to riding Golden Tempo in the Breeders' Cup Classic, a decision that has led to Flavien Prat taking over as Magnitude's jockey. Ortiz's agent, Steve Rushing, clarified that the choice was not made lightly, emphasizing that the long-term prospects and future careers of both horses played a crucial role in the decision-making process. Golden Tempo is slated to remain in training for the 2027 season, indicating a continued future in racing, whereas the Breeders' Cup Classic is anticipated to be Magnitude's final career start. This strategic consideration ultimately influenced Ortiz's dedication to Golden Tempo, highlighting the complex factors that go into a jockey's commitment in high-stakes races.
Golden Tempo, trained by Cherie DeVaux, has been a consistent performer under Ortiz's guidance, with the jockey having ridden the colt in every race of its career. The horse's impressive victories in the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes underscore the strong connection between Ortiz and Golden Tempo. Despite a third-place finish in the Travers Stakes, Golden Tempo's team remains focused on the Breeders' Cup Classic, with DeVaux having continuously prepared the horse for this specific challenge. The decision for Ortiz to stay with Golden Tempo reflects a belief in their established partnership and the horse's potential for continued success. This unwavering loyalty, based on both past achievements and future aspirations, forms a compelling narrative as Golden Tempo aims for another major victory with its trusted rider.