Obataye is automatically born in 2026 BC Turf, courtesy of Hipodromo de San Isidro
Brazilian star gets first automatic berth in 2026 Longines Breeders’ Cup Turf
Breeder’s cup press
BUENOS AIRES, Argentina – Haras Rio Iguassu’s 5 year old Obataye (BZ) rocketed past five rivals in the final furlong to capture the 1.5km Gran Premio Carlos Pellegrini International (G1) at Hipodromo de San Isidro on Saturday. With this victory, Obataye, ridden by Joao Moreira, earned the first automatic starting position for next year’s $5 million Longines Breeders’ Cup Turf (G1) via the Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series: Win and You’re In.
The Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series is an international series of races in which winners receive automatic entry and compensation into a corresponding race of the 2026 Breeders’ Cup World Championships scheduled for October 30-31 at Keeneland Race Course in Lexington, Kentucky. The Gran Premio Carlos Pellegrini International was the first Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series race of the 2026 season.
Trained by Antonio Oldoni, Obataye won his third Group 1 race this year and has conquered South America’s two most prestigious races in a row, having won the Gran Premio Latino Americano (G1) in Brazil in his previous start. Obataye, a son of Courtier out of the Crimson Tide (IRE) mare Sufri’n USA, completed the 1 ½ miles in 2:24.14 under a course listed as “normal.” He registered his 10ewin in 18 starts.
In one of the deepest Carlos Pellegrini fields in recent years, Obataye faced sixteen rivals as 4-1 favorite. He was in the middle of the pack for the first half mile Jazzy Frank (ARG) puts the early fractions closely followed by Vote right (ARG). Coming out of the final turn, Moreira swung his horse into the middle of the course The gladiator hat (ARG) made a powerful wave down the inside for the lead. Obataye then kicked into high gear and flew in past his foes to take a 1 1/2 length victory over The Gladiator’s Hat. Havana cigar (BRZ) finished third, followed by Vota Bien in fourth. As part of the Challenge Series benefits, Breeders’ Cup pays the entry fee for Obataye to start in the Longines Breeders’ Cup Turf, which is run at 1 1/2 miles. Breeders’ Cup also provides travel reimbursement for all starters based outside of North America to participate in the World Championships. To receive the rewards, the Challenge winner must be nominated for the Breeders’ Cup program by the October 19, 2026 entry deadline.
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