Each year, stakes races in the United States are reviewed for their grading status. For 2025, the American Graded Stakes Committee has made important updates, including 4 upgrades and 33 downgrades. These changes affect the prestige and ranking of horse races across the country.
Key Upgrades for 2025
A New Grade 1 Race
The American Turf Stakes at Churchill Downs has been promoted to Grade 1 status. This makes it one of the most prestigious races in the country.
New Grade 2 Races
Three races have been upgraded to Grade 2 status:
- Jockey Club Derby Invitational at Belmont at Aqueduct.
- Chicago Stakes at Churchill Downs.
- Sycamore Stakes at Keeneland.
Grade 3 Promotions
Nine races earned Grade 3 status, including:
- Glen Cove and Winter Memories at Belmont at Aqueduct.
- Kelly’s Landing and Mamzelle at Churchill Downs.
- Unzip Me Stakes at Santa Anita Park.
Significant Downgrades
Grade 1 to Grade 2
The Alfred G. Vanderbilt Handicap at Saratoga was downgraded to Grade 2 status.
Grade 2 to Grade 3
Ten races were demoted, including:
- John A. Nerud and Pennine Ridge at Belmont at Aqueduct.
- Delaware Handicap at Delaware Park.
- Triple Bend Stakes at Santa Anita Park.
Grade 3 to Listed
Twenty-two races lost their Grade 3 status, including:
- Go For Wand and Withers Stakes at Aqueduct.
- Knickerbocker Stakes at Belmont at Aqueduct.
- Barbara Fritchie Stakes at Laurel Park.
Listed and Non-Listed Races
New Listed Races
Twelve races were promoted to listed status, including:
- Isaac Murphy Marathon Overnight at Churchill Downs.
- Lafayette Stakes at Keeneland.
- Cathryn Sophia Stakes at Parx Racing.
Downgraded to Non-Listed
Twenty-one races dropped to non-listed black-type status, such as:
- Heavenly Prize at Aqueduct.
- Awad Stakes at Belmont at Aqueduct.
- Carry Back Stakes at Gulfstream Park.
A Closer Look at the 2025 Stakes Landscape
The committee reviewed 957 stakes races with purses of $75,000 or more. Of these, 415 races were assigned graded status, which is 14 fewer than in 2024. Here’s how the graded stakes break down:
- Grade 1: 93 races (no change).
- Grade 2: 130 races (7 fewer).
- Grade 3: 192 races (7 fewer).
Additionally, there are 198 listed races, 12 listed-restricted races, and 332 non-listed eligible races.
Why These Changes Matter
Grading stakes races is vital for the horse racing industry. It determines the prestige of a race, affects betting interest, and boosts the reputation of winning horses and their connections. These changes help keep the grading system competitive and relevant. With the new upgrades and downgrades, fans and horse owners alike can expect an exciting 2025 season.
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