What Is 2015 World's Best Racehorse Rankings

Overview

The 2015 World's Best Racehorse Rankings were published by the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA) to objectively assess the top-performing Thoroughbred racehorses in flat racing during the calendar year. These rankings are based on a scale of ratings assigned to horses following elite international performances, with higher numbers indicating superior performance.

The rankings reflect performances in Group 1, Grade 1, and other top-tier flat races across the globe, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. The system aims to provide a standardized comparison of equine excellence, factoring in race quality, competition strength, and margin of victory.

• American Pharoah earned a peak rating of 130, making him the highest-rated horse of 2015 due to his Triple Crown and Breeders' Cup Classic wins.
• The rankings included horses aged three and older, excluding jumps racing and focusing exclusively on flat racing disciplines.
• Only performances between January 1 and December 31, 2015 were considered, ensuring a consistent annual evaluation period.
• 16 horses worldwide achieved a rating of 120 or higher, reflecting elite-level performance on the international stage.
• The final list was compiled by a panel of international handicappers from 12 countries, ensuring a balanced and authoritative assessment.

How It Works

The World's Best Racehorse Rankings use a standardized handicapping system to assign numerical ratings based on race performance, adjusted for track conditions, competition, and race class. Each horse’s highest single performance during the year determines its official ranking.

• Rating System: Horses are assigned a numerical score based on performance; a 130 is considered 'equine elite,' comparable to historic champions.
• Triple Crown Impact: American Pharoah’s sweep of the Kentucky Derby, Preakness, and Belmont Stakes significantly boosted his final rating to 130.
• Global Scope: Races from 12 countries were monitored, including the U.S., U.K., France, Japan, and Australia, to ensure inclusivity.
• Grade 1 Requirement: Only performances in Group/Grade 1 races are eligible for consideration in the rankings.
• Panel Consensus: A committee of international handicappers meets annually to review performances and finalize the official list by January 2016.
• Post-Retirement Recognition: Despite retiring after 2015, American Pharoah’s achievements secured his position as the year’s top-ranked horse.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of the top five horses in the 2015 World's Best Racehorse Rankings by peak rating, major wins, and region.

The table highlights American Pharoah’s dominance in 2015, just one point ahead of Golden Horn. While past legends like Frankel and Black Caviar are included for context, only performances from 2015 are officially ranked. The close ratings between top contenders reflect the high level of competition in international racing.

Why It Matters

These rankings serve as a definitive benchmark for equine excellence, influencing breeding value, racing prestige, and historical legacy. They also help fans, owners, and breeders compare performances across continents and racing styles.

• Breeding Value: A high ranking like 130 dramatically increases a stallion’s stud fee, as seen with American Pharoah post-retirement.
• Historical Context: Being named the world’s best horse places a horse among legends, enhancing its place in racing history.
• Global Recognition: The rankings elevate international profiles, helping horses like Japan’s Epiphaneia gain recognition outside their home countries.
• Owner & Trainer Prestige: Trainers such as Bob Baffert gain global acclaim, boosting their reputation and future opportunities.
• Media & Fan Engagement: The annual list generates significant media coverage, increasing public interest in horse racing worldwide.
• Performance Benchmark: The ratings provide a consistent metric for comparing horses across eras and regions, aiding in historical analysis.

Ultimately, the 2015 rankings immortalized American Pharoah’s historic season, combining statistical rigor with global recognition to celebrate one of the most memorable years in modern horse racing.