The Keeneland September Yearling Sale, the global barometer of the industry, gets underway

Starting Monday, the world’s most important auction once again sets the tempo for the sport, with 4,686 yearlings catalogued and a top-class offering

There will be 12 days of trading at Keeneland / ARCHIVO / KEENELAND

LEXINGTON, Kentucky (Special for Turf Diario).- Keeneland opens the doors Monday to its iconic September Yearling Sale, the largest and most influential auction of its kind in the world, a true meeting point for breeders, buyers, and consignors from across the globe.

The sale will run for 12 sessions, from Sept. 8-20, beginning with the exclusive Book 1 on Monday and Tuesday. This year’s catalogue features 4,686 yearlings (2,398 colts and 2,288 fillies) by 189 sires, highlighted by the eagerly awaited first crops of standouts such as Flightline (Tapit), Corniche (Quality Road), Epicenter (Not This Time), Golden Pal(Uncle Mo), Jack Christopher (Munnings), Jackie’s Warrior (Maclean’s Music), Life Is Good (Into Mischief), and Mandaloun (Into Mischief), among others.

“The September Sale represents the heart of Keeneland’s mission: connecting the best horses with a global marketplace that drives our sport forward,” said Shannon Arvin, Keeneland’s President and CEO. “It’s not only the most important sale of the year, but also a gathering place for the entire industry and a defining moment that helps shape the future of racing.”

The economic and sporting impact is immense. The 2023 renewal was the most lucrative yearling auction in history, generating more than $428 million in sales, with 36 yearlings bringing $1 million or more and records set for both average ($147,926) and median ($70,000).

Keeneland’s influence is equally visible on the racetrack. Graduates of the September Sale have captured 275 stakes in 2025, with high-profile victories across North America, Europe, Japan, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Just this past U.S. holiday weekend, names such as Antiquarian (Preservationist) (GI Jockey Club Gold Cup), Ted Noffey (Into Mischief) (GI Hopeful S.), Formidable Man (City of Light) (GII Del Mar Mile), and Citizen Bull (Into Mischief) (Shared Belief S.) all showcased the Keeneland brand.

“When the September Sale thrives, the entire Thoroughbred industry thrives,” Arvin added. “The funds generated here are reinvested in purses, safety, market development, and fan engagement. Its impact is global.”

The 82nd renewal promises to maintain the highest standard, with expectations of new records and the certainty that, once again, the champions of the future will take their first step here.