Equestrian Star Arcangelo Shocks Racing World With Unexpected Withdrawal From Breeders’ Cup Classic 2023

The horse racing world’s ‘Super Bowl’, the Breeders Cup is here, and the 2-day equestrian event boasts the top-tier horses in the line-up. In the 40th edition of the premium event, fans and spectators have their eyes glued to the tracks. The $28 million worth race will kick off on November 3, in Santa Anita, California. The morning line’s second favorite’s fate took an unexpected turn before his upcoming thrilling act.

Arcangelo, the 2023 Belmont Stakes and Travers Stakes winner, faced some setbacks last week, resulting in an absence on Monday’s pre-event warm-up at Santa Anita Park. After his left hind hoof got irritated, the trainer Jena Antonucci confirmed a replacement. However, the level-headed Antonucci’s update today left the horse racing world in shock.

Equestrian world baffled by Arcangelo’s fate

David Grening, an avid horse racing fan and representer of Daily Racing Form, posted a heartbreaking update on X. His caption reads, “BREAKING: Arcangelo out of BC Classic. Jena Antonucci: ‘We are going to be scratching. We need more time to diagnose and make sure the horse is well.’ More later.” 

Fans witnessed Arcangelo’s 4 furlong stretch in 47.4s last Wednesday. Though Antonucci placed her horse’s health above all, the news distressed worldwide fans. She said in an interview, “We just are giving him the patience. He’s ready to run. We don’t have to do anything from a training point of view. And so, just being responsible and conservative.” Additionally, she also said, “I’m going to just continue to assess him each morning and afternoon. … We’re going to tend to the horse, like we always do.” 

Despite all the setbacks, the star equine has had a career worth celebrating. Besides earning an individual win, the colt anchored her trainer to a debut victory as well.

Belmont Stakes victory

Training Arcangelo has been nothing but a boon to trainer Jenna Antonucci. She established herself as the first equestrian trainer to clinch the Belmont Stakes win. The Kentucky Derby winning jockey Javier Castellano galloped to victory, after five weeks of rigorous racing. Preakness champ National Treasure was easily left behind by the equine-rider duo in New York’s Belmont Park. Praising to her beloved horse, Antonucci had posted on X, “Good morning #Arcangelo! “Everyone is so proud of you, and I am so grateful.” While her trainer planted a kiss on her nose, the horse looked spoiled with love. Earning the first Triple Crown win, the Florida native jumped in a 2:29.23 unprecedented victory. 

READ MORE: Despite Losing Family To The Sport, 51-Year-Old Horse Racing Champion Refuses To Quit

Though unconfirmed, after an unhappy end of 2023 Breeders Cup season, the equine’s groomers may be getting him retired. As the colt prepares to conclude his career, the stud journey is about to begin.

Watch this story: Bill Gates Equestrian Daughter Jennifer Gates Teases Vera Wang Connection in Latest Update