Further Ado will run in the Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile and face Full Serrano

The son of Gun Runner opted for the Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile (G1) preference instead of the Breeders' Cup Classic (G1), where Knightsbridge and Napoleon Solo were confirmed today

By DIEGO H. MITAGSTEIN (Special Envoy for Turf Diario to Lexington, Kentucky)

Following the decisions reached by the connections of Knightsbridge (Nyquist) and Napoleon Solo (Liam's Map) to target the Breeders' Cup Classic (G1), Brad Cox took a different path with Further Ado, winner of the Blue Grass Stakes (G1) right here at Keeneland, who will ultimately line up in the Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile (G1) carrying the colors of Spendthrift Farm.

The son of Gun Runner entered off a second-place effort behind The Puma (Essential Quality) in the Pennsylvania Derby (G1) and boasted major credentials over the course host to the series, headlined by his dominant 11-length romp in the Blue Grass Stakes.

Nevertheless, Brad Cox preferred to prioritize the colt's winning probability rather than pressing forward toward the more ambitious objective.

“We simply felt this alternative gives him the best chance to win a race,” summarized the trainer, outlining a choice that reshapes the outlook for both contests.

Thus, while Further Ado attempts to capitalize on his conditions over 1,600 meters, Napoleon Solo will gamble for top honors in a Breeders' Cup Classic lineup featuring defending champion Forever Young (Real Steel) from Japan and reigning 2025 American Horse of the Year Sovereignty (Into Mischief).

The chestnut will consequently square off against Argentine-bred Full Serrano (Full Mast), who will contest the Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile for the third consecutive season, an event he captured in 2024 at Del Mar.

With decisions finalized and the post position draw just moments away, the premier showcase of the Breeders' Cupcontinues to gather intrigue. And Napoleon Solo, far from seeking a path of lesser resistance, elected to measure himself against the world's best.