“Sovereignty Triumphs as Horse of the Year, Top 3YO Male”
Sovereignty, a 3-year-old colt sired by Into Mischief, secured the title of America’s Horse of the Year for 2025 during the Resolute Racing Eclipse Awards. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum’s Godolphin operation celebrated this win at The Breakers in Palm Beach, Florida. This recognition marks Godolphin’s second triumph in three years, preceded by Cody’s Wish in 2023.
Bill Mott, the trainer of Sovereignty, received his fifth Eclipse Award, honored as the outstanding trainer. He expressed deep pride in the recognition, highlighting Sheikh Mohammed’s contributions to racing globally. Despite missing the opportunity to compete in the prestigious GI Breeders’ Cup Classic, Sovereignty’s impressive six-race season included winning both the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes.
Sovereignty’s Stellar Performance
Throughout the racing season, Sovereignty demonstrated exceptional skill. His campaign included victories in key races, further establishing him as a leading contender. Votes from 201 members across the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, National Turf Writers and Broadcasters, and Daily Racing Form confirmed his status as Horse of the Year. He was the unanimous victor in the champion 3-year-old male category, receiving all but one of the 219 ballots.
- Notable Races:
- Kentucky Derby (2025)
- Belmont Stakes (2025)
- Spring and Summer Stakes at Saratoga
- Voting Statistics:
- 219 ballots cast for 3-Year-Old Male Champion
- 201 votes from the three major voting blocs
- One abstention noted in the voting process
Other Award Winners
The awards ceremony also recognized other outstanding horses and individuals:
- Outstanding Owner and Breeder: Godolphin
- Champion Turf Male: Notable Speech, trained by Charlie Appleby
- Champion 2-Year-Old Male: Ted Noffey, unbeaten with a record of 4-for-4
- Champion 2-Year-Old Filly: Super Corredora
- Champion Older Dirt Female: Thorpedo Anna
- Champion Female Sprinter: Shisospicy
Voting for the Eclipse Awards, which engaged 240 members, concluded on January 1, 2026. With a return rate of 91.7%, the process used a point system to rank the performances within each category, ultimately unveiling the winners at the January ceremony.
The night was not only a celebration of Sovereignty’s achievements but also reflected the dedication and excellence present in the racing community. With the accolades of 2025, Godolphin and its team continue to leave an indelible mark on horse racing.
