Joel Rosario claims the leading jockey title at Del Mar Summer Meet
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 13, 2026, 3:24 PM
Last updated Sep 13, 2026

Jockey Joel Rosario secured the leading rider title at the 2026 Del Mar Summer Meet, which concluded on September 7. After transitioning back from the New York and Kentucky racing circuits, the veteran jockey recorded 42 winners over the 32-day meet. Rosario’s mounts earned $2,964,832 in total prize money, with 51% of his entries finishing in the top three. The Southern California venue previously served as a primary base for Rosario, who first achieved success there in 2007. Following his Hall of Fame induction in 2024, Rosario cited the quality of competition and the track environment as primary reasons for his decision to return to the Pacific coast. Trainers such as Doug O’Neill praised his professional demeanor and consistent output throughout the summer season.
- •Joel Rosario rode 42 winners at the 2026 Del Mar Summer Meet.
- •The meet spanned 32 days between July 17 and September 7.
- •Rosario won the Grade II $250,000 Pat O'Brien Stakes on August 29.
- •His career total at Del Mar reached 286 wins following the meet.
- •Rosario was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2024.
- 3:24 PMYahoo Sports — Joel Rosario Wins Summer Meet Jockey Title In Return To Del Mar
"Jockey Joel Rosario made a triumphant return to his racing roots in Southern California by winning the title as leading rider at Del Mar.
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