On the Tuesday morning before the highly anticipated 2024 Breeders’ Cup Classic at Del Mar, drama unfolded as Sovereignty, the star three-year-old and favorite for the race, was revealed by trainer Bill Mott to have developed a mild fever. Despite appearing otherwise healthy and eating well, Sovereignty’s participation was uncertain, with Mott emphasizing cautious optimism and daily monitoring before deciding if the colt would run. This news contrasted with the routine preparations of other top contenders like Fierceness, Journalism, Sierra Leone, and Forever Young, who were reported to be in good form and training well ahead of the “best Classic in 20 years.”

The potential absence of Sovereignty would shift the spotlight onto other leading three-year-olds such as Journalism, who recently changed jockeys, and Fierceness, who has gained confidence from past races. Meanwhile, defending champion Sierra Leone and Japan’s Forever Young, both showing strong physical and mental condition improvements, remained focused on the race. Trainers and jockeys expressed respect for Sovereignty’s talent and disappointment at the possibility of missing such a competitive field, underscoring the high stakes and excitement surrounding this year’s Breeders’ Cup Classic.