Argentine Jockey Jorge Ruiz Díaz Shines at Gulfstream and Secures a Ride in the Florida Derby

This past weekend, Jorge Ruiz Díaz captured the Texas Glitter Stakes (L) at Gulfstream Park, further solidifying his position among the top riders at the meet. His strong performances have propelled him to ninth place in the standings, both in earnings and total wins

Jorge Ruiz Díaz Scores with Incanto in the Texas Glitter Stakes at Gulfstream Park / ADAM COGLINESE

By Diego H. Mitagstein

It was during an interview with Turf Diario TV, a couple of years ago. Jorge Ruiz Díaz had already made a name for himself in the United States and was preparing to take the next step by competing in the Championship Meet at Gulfstream Park—the toughest and most prestigious winter meet in Florida, where some of the best jockeys in the country converge.

He had confidence in his abilities and was only waiting for the right opportunities, the right mounts, to compete on equal footing with elite names like José Ortiz, John Velázquez, Luis Sáez, Tyler Gaffalione, and many others.

Now, the Argentine rider is proving himself at the highest level. Ruiz Díaz is enjoying a stellar meet at Gulfstream Park, currently sitting ninth in the standings both by earnings (US$1,387,185) and total wins (32), ranking ahead of Javier Castellano, Paco López, Emisael Jaramillo, and Joe Bravo, among others.

Having made history last November as the first Argentine jockey to ride in the Breeders’ Cup, Ruiz Díaz continues to thrive. This past weekend was another testament to his remarkable form, capped off with a signature win aboard Incanto (Mehmas) in the Texas Glitter Stakes (L) on Saturday, teaming up with Venezuelan trainer José Francisco D’Angelo.

“The truth is, I had an excellent weekend, winning a couple of races, including a stakes, and finishing second in another one with a filly. I was fortunate to pick up the mount for the stakes, but you also need a bit of luck. The trainer gave me the opportunity, and we made the most of it. I’m working extremely hard, staying focused, and pushing forward, and things are going well,” Ruiz Díaz said.

On Sunday, he nearly added another stakes victory, finishing runner-up with Me Governor (The Factor) in the Melody of Colors Stakes (L) for trainer Carlos David.

His recent performances have earned him a massive opportunity: next Saturday, Ruiz Díaz will ride Indecisiveness (Decisive Moment) in the Florida Derby (G1), Gulfstream’s marquee event and a major stepping stone on the Road to the Kentucky Derby.

“The colt ran well in his last race, finishing third. I worked him in the morning, and I liked what I saw. Of course, he’s facing some very tough opponents, but in racing, anything can happen. We just need to be ready to capitalize on any opportunity that comes our way. The goal is to run a strong race and achieve the best possible result,” he added.

With 604 career wins in the U.S. and over $25 million in earnings, Ruiz Díaz will also be in action in five stakes races on Gulfstream’s high-profile card next weekend, including the Ghostzapper Stakes (G3), Appleton Stakes, Sand Springs Stakes, and Sanibel Island Stakes—a chance to cement his place among the elite.

Competing against the best jockeys in the world is no easy task. Following in the footsteps of Jorge Bourdieu and Horacio Karamanos, Ruiz Díaz has firmly established himself in U.S. racing, clearing hurdle after hurdle while showcasing a riding talent that is reaching new heights.