Trainer Bob Baffert, a legend in Thoroughbred racing with 21 Breeders’ Cup wins tied with Aidan O’Brien, is preparing to enter two undefeated two-year-olds in the 2026 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile at Keeneland. His top prospects are Hughes, seen as a favorite, and Salahudin, who is less well-known but equally unbeaten. Salahudin boasts three wins from three starts, including the notable Iroquois Stakes at Churchill Downs, with $392,175 in earnings. Owned by Zedan Racing and bought for $325,000 as a yearling, this son of Uncle Mo is described by Baffert as a large, raw-boned horse who improves with longer distances.

Baffert’s career is marked by extraordinary success with young horses. Starting in Arizona quarter horse racing, he has climbed to the pinnacle of Thoroughbred training with the highest number of grade 1 wins in history, including six Breeders’ Cup Juvenile victories. His talents have yielded 14 combined Kentucky Derby and Preakness wins. This proven track record makes his choice to run two undefeated juveniles in the $2 million Grade 1 race highly anticipated, especially with Salahudin considered the “other” entrant who could defy expectations.

Salahudin’s racing style has been marked by resilience and steady improvement. His win at Churchill Downs was particularly impressive, overcoming a poor start to surge from last place to the front, demonstrating determination and growth. Baffert believes Salahudin is still learning the nuances of racing and as he gains experience, especially over longer distances, his performance should continue to enhance. This gradual development aligns with Baffert’s reputation for nurturing young talent to reach their full potential.

The 2026 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile will be held on October 30 at Keeneland Race Course, with the race scheduled as the ninth event at 4:55 p.m. Eastern. Salahudin and Hughes represent Baffert’s bid to add to his record Breeders’ Cup wins in a highly competitive field. For Baffert and Zedan Racing, the race offers not just a chance for a significant $2 million purse but an opportunity to spotlight an underappreciated yet promising athlete in Salahudin, whose future may include classic races like the Kentucky Derby.