John Velazquez

John Velazquez is a Puerto Rican flat jockey who ranks among the winningest riders in the history of North American thoroughbred racing, with over 6,000 career victories. Known universally as "Johnny V," he has won the Kentucky Derby twice: aboard Always Dreaming in 2017 and Authentic in 2020.

Velazquez arrived on the US mainland in the early 1990s and built his career primarily on the New York circuit, where he became a fixture at the top of the jockey standings for two decades. His major victories extend well beyond the Derby. He has won the Belmont Stakes, the Breeders' Cup Classic, multiple Breeders' Cup sprint and turf races, and virtually every significant graded stakes in America. His longevity is remarkable; where many jockeys fade after their mid-30s, Velazquez continued to compete at the highest level well into his 50s, a testament to physical conditioning and tactical intelligence.

What defines Velazquez is experience converted into instinct. He has ridden in so many big-race scenarios that his decision-making in the heat of a race is automatic and almost invariably correct. He positions horses with minimal fuss, conserves ground on the turns, and times his finishes with an accuracy that comes from thousands of races rather than youthful athleticism alone. His relationship with trainer Todd Pletcher has been one of the most productive jockey-trainer partnerships in modern American racing, producing hundreds of graded stakes winners. He is respected across the sport not just for talent but for professionalism and durability.

Velazquez's 2026 presence at the major meetings will depend on his riding commitments as his career enters its later phase. He remains a contender at the Kentucky Derby and the Breeders' Cup, where his experience in championship-level racing is unmatched. Fans can follow in Puerto Rico time.