The Breeders’ Cup Turf is one of the premier international grass races on the championship calendar. In 2026, the Breeders’ Cup World Championships return to Keeneland in Lexington, Kentucky, on October 30 and 31.
The Turf is scheduled for Saturday, October 31. It is contested over 1 1/2 miles on turf and carries a $5 million purse. The official maximum field is 14 starters.
2026 Breeders’ Cup Turf facts
Venue: Keeneland, Lexington, Kentucky
Date: October 31, 2026
Distance: 1 1/2 miles
Surface: Turf
Purse: $5 million
Eligible division: Horses age three and older
Maximum starters: 14
How horses reach the Turf
The international path to the Turf develops through major championship races and Breeders’ Cup Challenge events across North America, Europe and other racing regions. A nominated horse that wins an eligible Challenge race receives an automatic starting position and paid entry fees for the corresponding championship race.
OTB Bet follows that global picture through permanent guides including the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, Irish Champion Stakes, Canadian International and Japan Cup.
Key 2026 championship dates
Breeders’ Cup online pre entry opens October 1. The official pre entry deadline is October 19 at noon Eastern. Race order and post times are scheduled to be announced October 21.
Those dates are important because international campaigns can remain fluid through October. This page will be updated when official entries and final championship details become available.
Breeders’ Cup Turf coverage on OTB Bet
This page is the permanent reference hub for the Breeders’ Cup Turf. Current previews, qualifying developments and results will link back here rather than creating duplicate guide pages.
For the full championship structure, visit the Breeders’ Cup hub. You can also explore the Breeders’ Cup Classic and the Major Races center.
Source: Breeders’ Cup official 2026 World Championships race schedule and Challenge Series information.