The 2025 Breeders’ Cup Classic at Del Mar lost its headline act and overwhelming favorite when Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes winner Sovereignty was scratched from the $7 million race. The star three-year-old colt, who was established as the heavy 6-5 morning line favorite, was withdrawn after developing a fever just days before the world championship event. The news prompted an immediate and empathetic outpouring from across the horse racing community, a sentiment powerfully articulated by billionaire owner and competitor Mike Repole.

Trainer Bill Mott confirmed his colt’s situation, stating, “He spiked another fever even though he’d had some medication in him from 6 o’clock that morning. He re-spiked another fever, and we re-treated him, and of course, now he’s on antibiotics. Seems to be doing well this morning; his temp’s down to just one tick above normal, and he looks bright and looks pretty good. But he’s definitely out of the Breeders’ Cup; I mean, there’s no, you know, he’ll be scratched.”

Taking to X, Repole expressed his profound sympathy: “My deepest sympathies to Sovereignty, Bill Mott, and everyone connected to this incredible athlete.” Repole then provided a rare glimpse behind the curtain of the sport, highlighting the immense effort that goes into preparing for these major events, stating, “What most fans never see is the stress, the sleepless nights, and the tireless work that trainers, veterinarians, grooms, and every person in the barn put in to prepare these horses for the biggest moments. It’s overwhelming… and when something like this happens, it’s absolutely gut-wrenching.”

His message resonated with authenticity, as he acknowledged his own firsthand experience with such setbacks, adding, “Unfortunately, I’ve been on this side and it’s sucks.” Repole’s statement concluded by shifting focus from rivalry to respect, emphasizing the collective admiration for Sovereignty and his team. “As competitors, we live for the chance to race against the great ones — and Sovereignty is one of the greats. Today, I’m thinking of Bill, his entire team, and everyone who loves this horse.”

The scratch not only ended hopes for a definitive Horse of the Year showdown but also continued a pattern of cautious, horse-first management from Mott and owner Godolphin, who had also skipped the Preakness Stakes earlier in the year to preserve the colt’s health.

The unfortunate turn of events for Sovereignty serves as a stark reminder of the fragile nature of horse racing, where months of preparation can be undone by a sudden illness. Yet, in the face of this disappointment, the unified response from figures like Repole and the wider community underscores a shared understanding that the well-being of the athlete—the horse—ultimately transcends any single race.

Prayers and well wishes flood in for Sovereignty

Sovereignty, the winner of the 2025 Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes, wasn’t just any contender; he was a star that really got fans excited and caught the media’s eye in major races. His scratch from the Breeders’ Cup Classic, which is the big event of the season, is being viewed as a setback for the whole industry. Still, this fan is holding onto hope for the colt’s return, saying, “Just hope we will see Sovereignty on the racetrack again. The game needs it now, for than ever.”

Repole’s statement really highlighted a part of the sport that a lot of fans might not be aware of. One fan even said, “Prayers for Sovereignty to recover and defeat the fever. His fever must still be unbroken or the blood tests came back showing infection. I have no doubt that Sovereignty will be a Breeders Cup champ next year. Reading Mike‘s condolences, I have a new appreciation for the team.”

Another fan shared, “The sport of racing is unpredictable & I can’t imagine the disappointment for Bill Mott, his assistant trainers, Sovereignty’s grooms, exercise riders & Junior Alvarado. Junior has an incredible connection with this horse. I pray we haven’t seen the last of them on the track.”

Mott has built a solid reputation as a horseman who really puts animal welfare first. He even mentioned that a horse just won’t run if it’s not at its best, and eventually, Sovereignty won’t either. Fans totally get it, like this one who said, “Thank you Mr. Mott for putting Sovereignty first.” Another fan shared, “I’m sad, but I understand. Get well soon Sovereignty!”

The way everyone reacted to Sovereignty’s scratch shows that, even though the sport is eager for its stars, it really puts the horse first and foremost. Even in the disappointment, you can really see how much everyone cares about the animal’s well-being and the team’s hard work. It just goes to show that being a true champion is about more than just winning trophies.