A new, $1-million Florida Sire Racing Incentive Program for 2026–providing win incentives to owners and breeders of FSS-eligible 2-year-olds at Gulfstream Park and Tampa Bay Downs–has been announced by the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders' and Owners' Association.
Each 2-year-old winner of a maiden special weight, allowance, allowance optional claiming or stakes race at either track during calendar year 2026 will earn a $25,000 racing incentive paid directly by the FTBOA–$20,000 to the winning owner and $5,000 to the breeder.
The new program replaces the Florida Sire Stakes series for 2-year-olds.
“The FTBOA did not enter this decision lightly,” FTBOA CEO Lonny Powell said. “We had no other choice since repeated attempts to negotiate an agreement with the parties for the last six months went nowhere.”
“It is tragic that our breeders and owners have been denied Florida's traditional centerpiece races, but we are excited to announce the new Florida Sire Racing Incentives for 2026,” Powell said. “Florida breeders, owners and the sales segment will all benefit from this lucrative and timely initiative. With almost 70 percent of Florida-bred winners in Florida being Florida-sired, this program delivers real value where it matters most.”
He added, “The new Florida Sire Racing Incentives Program continues the FTBOA's expanding investments in Florida's Thoroughbred industry; joining the $1 million FTBOA Export Incentives launched to reward breeders whose Florida-breds win at out-of-state tracks, fee-free FTBOA and Florida Sire foal registrations, and the FTBOA's steadfast defense against decoupling.”
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