The Gran Premio Latinoamericano and the gathering of two legends

Jorge Ricardo and Juan Suárez Villarroel have combined for over 24,000 wins and will share the spotlight this Saturday at Hipódromo da Gávea in an unmissable event

Juan Suárez and Jorge Ricardo, legends of South American and world racing / AL GALOPE

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (Special Correspondent) – This Saturday’s Gran Premio Latinoamericano (G1) at Hipódromo da Gávea promises to be an unforgettable celebration—not only for the quality of its contenders or the charm of Rio de Janeiro, but because it will bring together two living legends of world racing: the winningest jockey and the most successful trainer in the history of the sport.

Between Jorge Ricardo and Juan Suárez Villaroel, they have combined for more than 24,000 victories, an astonishing figure that encapsulates decades of talent, perseverance, and passion for the game.

The Brazilian ace broke Russell Baze’s all-time record on February 7, 2018, at Hipódromo de San Isidro, when he celebrated his 12,845th career win. Just a day earlier, on his home track at Jockey Club Brasileiro, he had tied the mark aboard Jubileia, carrying the colors of Haras Sweet Carol. Today, Ricardo has surpassed 13,350 victories, still adding to his unparalleled legacy with the same drive that has defined his career.

For his part, Peruvian trainer Juan Suárez Villaroel claimed the world record for wins by a trainer on September 19, 2019, at Hipódromo de Monterrico, eclipsing Dale Baird’s 9,445 triumphs. Since then, he has continued to dominate, now boasting over 11,000 victories, a staggering number that speaks to both his skill and longevity. Close behind him on the all-time list is American Steve Asmussen.

Suárez, the defending champion of the Latino, will send out Boudica (Galapiat) for Stud Jet Set, seeking to repeat the success achieved in 2024 and become only the fourth mare ever to win the race.

Ricardo, meanwhile, will be aboard King Mo (Vancouver), representing Stud El Herraje, one of the most consistent runners in the lineup with 11 career wins. The Brazilian legend, already a five-time winner of the Latino, will look to extend his unmatched record in the event.

South American racing will thus witness a historic moment: the two most victorious figures the sport has ever known, side by side, in the continent’s most prestigious race—a perfect portrait for a Latinoamericano that truly promises to be, as its slogan declares, “the greatest of all time.”