Legendary Jockey Francisco “Cisco” Torres Returns to the Indiana Derby, this Time Behind the Scenes at Horseshoe Indianapolis

 30 years after his own victory, Torres helping new talent chase their own moment of glory

 Press Release by Darbie Cullipher, Race Marketing Intern

 

SHELBYVILLE, Ind. (Monday, June 30, 2025) – As Horseshoe Indianapolis prepares for one of the biggest race days of the season, the Indiana Derby, a familiar name from the winner’s circle, Francisco Torres, will not be returning in the saddle, but leading the way for the next generation of champions.

 

Francisco “Cisco” Torres, a retired jockey with over 3,000 career wins and more than $68 million in purse earnings, is back at the track as a jockey agent. Torres, who retired in 2017 after an exceptional 30-year riding career, won the Indiana Derby in 1996 at Hoosier Park aboard Canyon Run. Now, three decades later, he’s hoping to give his jockey’s a chance to experience the same career-defining moment he once had.

“I was blessed with a great career,” said Torres. “I said at the time, if I never won the Kentucky Derby and being that Indiana is the next state over, I would win the Indiana Derby – and I did.”

Torres represents Marcelino Pedroza Jr., who is currently 4th in the jockey standings at Horseshoe Indianapolis, as well as Alex Achard. He’s actively scouting for an apprentice jockey to fill all his bases and hopefully compete in bigger and better races.

“I didn’t want to quit riding, but it was seriously time to walk away,” Torres said of his decision to retire after suffering multiple serious injuries, including four different neck fractures. “I had a couple of avenues I could take. I was looking into being a steward, which I still am, and the next best thing was to be a jockey agent.”

In his new chapter, Torres is focused on mentorship.

“I want to take young kids and young apprentices and mentor them,” he said. “Teach them what I had learned and what I had went through to try and help them.”

With this year’s Indiana Derby set for Saturday, July 5, Torres is working behind the scenes to ensure key mounts for his riders.

“I’ve got a couple prospects for the Indiana Derby,” he added. “I’m hoping they come through.”

A career that has taken him across the globe, including Saudi Arabia, and to some of the most prestigious events in horse racing such as the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Breeders’ Cup. Torres also portrayed Hall of Fame jockey Braulio Baeza in the ESPN movie Ruffian. Now, he’s focused on inspiring and preparing the next wave of jockeys to leave their mark on the sport, right where one of his proudest victories took place.

The 31st running of the Grade 3 $300,000 Indiana Derby is set for a first post time of 12 p.m. Saturday, July 5 at Horseshoe Indianapolis. The race is joined by the Grade 3 $200,000 Indiana Oaks along with six other premier racing events with purses topping $1.1 million. The afternoon program is complemented by numerous activities including a $3,000 Derby Megabet, $2,500 Derby Legends Handicapping Contest, courtesy of the Indiana Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, $1,000 Derby Hat Contest, courtesy of the Indiana Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association, cigar rolling station, strolling entertainment food trucks and more. Free parking and general admission to the Indiana Derby, which is open to guests of all ages on the racing side.

The 23rd season of live Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing runs through Thursday, Nov. 13. For more information on racing at Horseshoe Indianapolis, visit www.caesars.com/horseshoe-indianapolis/racing or find details on social media @HSIndyRacing.