Manny Franco claims victory in the 157th Travers Stakes at Saratoga

Jockey Manny Franco guided Leading Change to victory in the 157th Travers Stakes at Saratoga Race Course on August 29, 2026. Riding before a crowd of nearly 48,000, Franco maneuvered his mount past pace-setter Napoleon Solo in the final stretch to secure the win. Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes winner Golden Tempo finished third. The win marks Franco’s second career Travers victory, following his 2020 success during pandemic-restricted conditions. Franco, who received a one-day suspension for excessive use of his riding crop, enters the final days of the Saratoga meet with 66 wins. He is currently competing against Flavien Prat and Jose Ortiz for the track's riding title as the season concludes.

• 11:00 AMYahoo Sports — Winning the Travers in front of fans adds more magic to Manny Franco's brilliant Saratoga season