Our Commitment
Breeders' Cup Limited is committed to maintaining the highest equine welfare and safety standards in Thoroughbred racing for the Breeders’ Cup World Championships and its participants.
Integrity, Safety & Security
At the Breeders' Cup, the safety of our athletes, equine and human, is our foremost priority.
That's why we have the highest safety, integrity and testing standards of any racing event in North America. Our safety and security protocols include pre- and post- race testing, including out-of-competition testing for prohibited substances; comprehensive prohibitions on anabolic steroids and other controlled substances; a 24 hour equine security watch beginning 72 hours from post time and periodic inspections/testing of all racing surfaces prior to the event. We also employ top equine regulatory vets from the US and Europe to inspect runners on-site throughout the week leading up to the event.
In cooperation with the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission, the 2022 Breeders’ Cup World Championships will feature the most up-to-date medication practices, testing protocols, equine security programs, veterinary exams, injury management protocols and race surface testing.
Learn more about what the Breeders' Cup does to reduce risk and protect our participants below.
A Closer Look at Breeders' Cup Safety Protocols
The Breeders' Cup has the highest safety, integrity and testing standards of any racing event in North America. Our safety and security protocols include pre- and post- race testing, including out-of-competition testing for prohibited substances; comprehensive prohibitions on anabolic steroids and other controlled substances. All runners must be on the grounds for a security check in on Tuesday, November 1 before post-time and are under surveillance by security experts, veterinarians, track officials, and regulators.
Surface Maintenance & Technology
The main track at Keeneland is a natural dirt track that is a combination of several types of dirt and sand. In order to ensure the safest track conditions for the athletes, surface specialists use a number of maintenance techniques depending on weather conditions.
Breeders' Cup Vet Examinations
All runners around the world undergo blood and hair follicle testing and multiple veterinary examinations before they are allowed to participate in the Breeders’ Cup World Championships.
Thoroughbred Safety Coalition
The nation’s leading Thoroughbred racing organizations have announced the creation of an industry-led effort to unify and enhance existing protections and work together to develop new reforms to ensure the safety of the sport’s equine and human athletes.