Who will pop the Champagne on Saturday? The road to the 2026 Kentucky Derby heats up in New York as nine talented 2-year-olds take their shot at glory in the Grade 1 Champagne Stakes — a historic one-mile test run at Belmont at Aqueduct. The winner not only earns 10 Kentucky Derby qualifying points but also a coveted “Win and You’re In” berth into the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile. This is where future stars are born, and where Derby dreams either ignite or evaporate.

I analyze all 9 contenders in this year’s Champagne — their form, ability to go the distance, and running style — with analysis that goes beyond the past performances. Stick around until the end, because some of these colts could be household names come next May.

🐎 Meet the Contenders (Champagne Stakes 2025 Field):

1️⃣ Curtain Call – (Trainer: Mark Casse) This colt is one of only two in the field with Grade 1 experience, exiting the G1 Hopeful Stakes at Saratoga. He’s already danced on the big stage — but can he deliver an encore when it matters most?

2️⃣ Stradale – (Trainer: Steve Asmussen) A $1.3 million purchase with a name that screams speed. He knows how to put the pedal down, but the question is: can he last the mile or will he hit empty before the finish line?

3️⃣ Universe – (Trainer: Kenny McPeek) Just one start and a modest speed figure, but with that pedigree, he might be ready to go supernova.

4️⃣ Aye Eye – (Trainer: Joseph Orseno) Plenty to like here with flashes of talent — but there are hurdles to clear before we crown him a contender.

5️⃣ Just ASAP – (Trainer: Mark Casse) Already proven at the mile. This one’s ready to roll — and might deliver ASAP.

6️⃣ It’s Our Time – (Trainer: Thomas Amoss) The buzz horse of the field. He dominated his debut and everyone wants to know: was that brilliance a one-time show, or is he about to put the division on notice?

7️⃣ Stickupwithoutagun – (Trainer: Kenny McPeek) This one’s going to have to pull off a heist to win with improvement needed

8️⃣ Napoleon Solo – (Trainer: Chad Summers) He’s been commanding the morning drills with three bullet workouts and is coming in like he’s planning to take over the race. Will he be a tactical genius or a reckless emperor?

9️⃣ Talkin – (Trainer: Danny Gargan) By Good Magic, who won this race in 2017, Talkin brings a pedigree for distance and a recent win over Stradale. If he’s talking the talk, he just might walk off with the trophy.

📊 Why the Champagne Stakes Matters:

🏆 A key Kentucky Derby prep race for 2-year-olds

🥇 Offers 10 qualifying points toward the 2025 Derby

🎫 Win and You’re In for the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile

📍 Historic 1-mile test on dirt at Belmont at Aqueduct

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Introduction music from YouTube Music Zydeco Piano Party by Media Right Productions Champagne pop is from Apple Final Cut Pro which I have permission for with my subscription to Apple Final Cut Pro

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