The Breeders’ Cup holds a special place in the hearts of horseplayers, but the year-end championships of thoroughbred racing have always had to contend with challenging timing and significant competition in trying to win the affection of more casual sports bettors.

However, the work to get stick-and-ball bettors to warm up to horse racing continues, and the 2024 Breeders’ Cup may have the kind of allies and storylines that will help sell it to casuals and diehards alike.