Breeders’ Cup Ltd. has expanded its Breeders’ Cup Charities initiative to provide stronger, sustainable support for key Thoroughbred racing industry causes. Central to this effort is the annual donation of all royalties from Breeders’ Cup merchandise sales, alongside new fundraising activities such as an annual day of giving, donation options during ticket purchases, merchandise checkout round-ups, and event-based contributions like cocktail sales and auctions. For 2025, the charity will back established organizations including the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund, and Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation, among others.
A major boost comes from philanthropist Ken Freirich, who will match up to $100,000 in donations on the upcoming day of giving, continuing his ongoing support for industry causes. Breeders’ Cup Charities, founded in 2008, now focuses on five core pillars: aftercare, jockey health, backstretch workers, equine research, and community initiatives. Breeders’ Cup President Drew Fleming emphasized that these enhancements mark a renewed commitment to creating lasting positive impact for the sport and its people, ensuring the welfare of equine athletes and those who care for them.