William “Bill” Mott is a towering figure in the world of horse racing, a trainer whose career is defined by unparalleled success, iconic champions, and a dedication to the sport that began in his youth. From his early days in South Dakota to commanding the sport’s biggest stages, Mott’s journey is a testament to skill, perseverance, and a deep understanding of thoroughbreds. This article delves into the remarkable career of Bill Mott, exploring his origins, his most celebrated horses, and his enduring legacy in the racing world.
Mott’s passion for horses was ignited early in his home state of South Dakota. Growing up, he was an integral part of his family’s horse training endeavors, learning the intricacies of the sport from the ground up. His first significant victory came at the tender age of 16, with Kosmic Tour clinching the South Dakota Futurity at Park Jefferson. This early success foreshadowed a future filled with even greater triumphs. By the early 1970s, Mott was honing his craft under the mentorship of the esteemed Hall of Fame trainer Jack Van Berg, while concurrently holding his own head trainer’s license. In 1978, Mott took a pivotal step by establishing his own public stable, marking the beginning of his independent training career.
The Era of Champions: Cigar and Royal Delta
Bill Mott’s training prowess reached new heights with the phenomenal success of Cigar, a horse that would etch his name into racing history. Mott guided Cigar through an astonishing streak of 16 consecutive victories, a feat that captivated the racing world. This legendary run included a historic triumph in the inaugural Dubai World Cup in 1996. Cigar’s career earnings soared to a record $9,999,815, a testament to his dominance and Mott’s exceptional training. Voted Horse of the Year in both 1995 and 1996, Cigar’s legacy is inextricably linked to Mott’s strategic brilliance.
Beyond Cigar, Mott also trained the equally accomplished Hall of Fame mare Royal Delta, a three-time Eclipse Award winner. The list of champions developed under Mott’s tutelage is extensive and includes other notable names such as Ajina, Channel Maker, Cody’s Wish, Elite Power, Escena, Paradise Creek, Sovereignty, and Theatrical. Each of these horses, in their own right, became synonymous with excellence on the racetrack, a direct reflection of Mott’s Midas touch.
Triple Crown Success and Breeders’ Cup Dominance
Mott’s impressive resume expanded significantly in 2010 when he secured his first Triple Crown race victory with Drosselmeyer in the Belmont Stakes. His Triple Crown success continued with victories in the Kentucky Derby with Country House in 2019 and the Horse of the Year, Sovereignty, in 2025. Sovereignty also provided Mott with his second Belmont Stakes win and his first Travers Stakes triumph. Furthermore, Mott boasts an extraordinary record in the Breeders’ Cup, having won a remarkable 16 races. This includes five victories in the prestigious Distaff race and two triumphs in the Classic. His Breeders’ Cup highlights demonstrate his consistent ability to prepare horses for the sport’s most critical events.
A Career of Accolades and Records
Bill Mott’s consistent excellence has been recognized with five Eclipse Awards for Outstanding Trainer in 1995, 1996, 2011, 2023, and 2025. He has also achieved significant success in training titles, with 10 at Belmont Park and nine each at Saratoga, Churchill Downs, and Gulfstream Park. As of the close of the 2025 racing season, Mott’s career statistics are staggering: 5,578 wins, placing him seventh all-time, and purse earnings exceeding $369 million, ranking him fourth all-time. These numbers underscore his enduring impact and sustained success over decades in a highly competitive sport. Trainer Profile | William I. Mott | Equibase is Your Official Source for Thoroughbred Racing Information
Conclusion: An Enduring Legacy
Bill Mott’s career is a masterclass in thoroughbred training, marked by an exceptional ability to nurture talent and achieve peak performance. His influence extends beyond the wins and accolades; he has inspired generations of trainers and owners with his dedication, integrity, and profound connection with the horses he guides. The champions he has trained are more than just racehorses; they are athletes whose brilliance has been unlocked through Mott’s expert stewardship. As his career continues, Bill Mott’s legacy as one of the all-time greats in horse racing is firmly secured.
