Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational to be inaugurated in 2019

The Stronach Group on Tuesday announced that the purse of the 2019 Pegasus World Cup Invitational (G1) would be reduced from $16 million to $9 million, with the $7 million difference used for the creation of the Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational, which will join the World Cup on the January 26, 2019 program at Gulfstream Park.

The new turf race will be contested at 1 3/16 miles with a $3 million first prize. The World Cup, at 1 1/8 miles on the main track, now offers a winner's share of $4 million. Both races will be limited to 12 starters each.

Any horse owner who purchases a spot in the Pegasus World Cup Invitational will be given preference to purchase a spot in the Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational. The cost to secure an entry spot and enter a horse is $500,000 per race.

"The appetite for a turf race is strong and the decision to include a premier turf race is part of the ongoing evolution of the Pegasus World Cup," said Belinda Stronach, Chairman and President, The Stronach Group. "We are excited to expand this event for both horse owners and fans, adding to what is already an incredible day of entertainment and world-class racing at Gulfstream Park."

The Stronach Group will offer a $1 million bonus to the owner who wins both the Pegasus World Cup Invitational and the Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational.