Irad Ortiz Jr net worth is a hot topic among horse racing fans. He is a top jockey with huge success. His career includes Eclipse Awards, multiple Breeders’ Cup wins, and two Belmont Stakes victories.
Despite his achievements, the Kentucky Derby win still eludes him. His earnings come from race prizes, endorsements, and partnerships like TVG Network and American Equus. He has dominated North America’s top jockey rankings for years.
With a family rooted in horse racing legacy, he trained at Escuela Vocacional Hípica in Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico. His estimated wealth in 2025 is $20 million. His influence in thoroughbred racing continues to grow, making him an industry icon.
Profile Summary Table
Attributes | Details |
Name | Irad Ortiz Jr |
Age | 32 years old |
Birthdate | August 11, 1992 |
Birthplace | Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico |
Nationality | Puerto Rican |
Height | 1.6 m (5’3″) |
Weight | 50 kg (112 lbs) |
Occupation | Jockey |
Net Worth | $20 million (as of 2025) |
Marital Status | Married to Melissa Betancourt |
Who is Irad Ortiz Jr?
Irad Ortiz Jr is a renowned Puerto Rican jockey known for his exceptional riding skills. He has dominated the New York Thoroughbred horse racing circuit since 2012. Ortiz has consistently ranked among North America’s top jockeys, earning numerous accolades and substantial prize money.
Ortiz’s success in horse racing has led to several Eclipse Awards for outstanding jockey. He is often featured on the TVG Network, highlighting his achievements in Thoroughbred racing. His partnership with American Equus showcases his influence in the sport.
Ortiz’s family legacy in racing, including his brother Jose Ortiz, has played a significant role in his career. Both brothers are among the famous Puerto Rican jockeys who have made a mark in international horse racing.
What is Irad Ortiz Jr Net Worth?
As of 2025, Irad Ortiz Jr net worth is estimated at $20 million. His earnings primarily come from purse earnings in Stakes races and Grade 1 races like the Belmont Stakes and Breeders’ Cup. Ortiz also benefits from jockey endorsements and racing partnerships.
Ortiz’s net worth reflects his success in high-stakes horse racing. He has won significant races, including the Tampa Bay Derby, and finished as a runner-up in the Holy Bull Stakes. His career earnings in horse racing exceed $342 million, making him one of the highest-earning jockeys.
Ortiz’s financial success is also influenced by his TVG sponsorship and American Equus endorsement. These partnerships highlight his status as a leading figure in competitive horse racing.
Where Does Irad Ortiz Jr Live?
Irad Ortiz Jr resides in the United States, where he actively participates in major racing events. His presence in the U.S. allows him to compete in prestigious races like the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes.
Living in the U.S. also provides Ortiz with opportunities to engage with professional horse trainers and participate in major racing competitions. His U.S. base is crucial for maintaining his position as North America’s top jockey.
Ortiz’s U.S. residence is strategic for his career, allowing him to be part of the horse racing legacy in the country. He often interacts with Hall of Fame jockeys and contributes to the sport’s history.
Who is the Wife of Irad Ortiz Jr?
Irad Ortiz Jr is married to Melissa Betancourt. While details about his personal life are limited, his family support plays a significant role in his career.
Ortiz’s family, including his wife, often attends his races, showing their support for his achievements in Thoroughbred racing. His family legacy in racing, including his brother Jose Ortiz, is well-known in the sport.
Ortiz’s personal life is closely tied to his professional achievements, with his family often celebrating his Stakes victories and Grade 1 wins.
Irad Ortiz Jr Biography
Born on August 11, 1992, in Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico, Irad Ortiz Jr comes from a family with a strong background in horse racing. His early life was marked by a passion for racing, which led him to pursue a career as a jockey.
Ortiz’s training began at the Escuela Vocacional Hípica in Puerto Rico, where he developed his riding skills. His brother, Jose Ortiz, is also a successful jockey, and together they have made a significant impact on international horse racing.
Ortiz’s career has been influenced by Angel Cordero Jr., a legendary Puerto Rican jockey who has inspired many in the sport. Ortiz’s achievements have contributed to the horse racing legacy of Puerto Rico.
Irad Ortiz Jr Career Beginnings
Irad Ortiz Jr began his career in Puerto Rico before moving to the United States. His breakthrough came in the early 2010s, and since then, he has become a leading figure in North American horse racing.
Ortiz’s success in the U.S. is marked by his wins in Grade 1 races and his consistent performance in Stakes races. He has won over 3,700 races and earned more than $342 million in purse earnings throughout his career.
Ortiz’s career milestones include winning the Breeders’ Cup Classic and participating in Triple Crown events like the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes.
Irad Ortiz Jr Income Streams
Irad Ortiz Jr’s income primarily comes from purse earnings in Stakes races and Grade 1 races. He also earns from jockey endorsements and racing partnerships.
Ortiz’s partnerships with brands like American Equus highlight his influence in Thoroughbred racing. His TVG sponsorship further demonstrates his status as a leading figure in the sport.
Ortiz’s financial success is also influenced by his participation in high-stakes horse racing events, where he competes against other top jockeys.
Important Achievements and Significant Milestones
Irad Ortiz Jr has achieved numerous milestones, including being honored with Eclipse Awards for outstanding jockey. He has won over 3,700 races and earned more than $342 million in purse earnings throughout his career.
Ortiz’s success in Breeders’ Cup events, including the Breeders’ Cup Classic and Breeders’ Cup Sprint, has cemented his position as a top jockey. His participation in Triple Crown events like the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes further highlights his achievements.
Ortiz’s achievements have contributed to his recognition as one of the most successful jockeys in horse racing history, with a strong winning percentage in Graded stakes races.
Net Worth in Various Currencies
Currency | Net Worth |
USD | $20 million |
EUR | €18.5 million |
GBP | £15.5 million |
AUD | AU$29.5 million |
CAD | CAD$26.5 million |
Irad Ortiz Jr Yearly Earnings, Monthly Income, and Salary
In 2020, Ortiz earned over $21 million, making him the highest-earning jockey in the United States that year. His monthly income varies based on race performance, but he consistently ranks among the top earners in the sport.
Ortiz’s career earnings in horse racing exceed $342 million, reflecting his success in high-stakes horse racing events. His net worth of $20 million as of 2025 is a testament to his achievements in the sport.
Ortiz’s financial success is also influenced by his racing partnerships and endorsements, which contribute to his overall income.
Early Life And Family
Irad Ortiz Jr was born into a family with a strong affinity for horse racing. His brother, Jose Ortiz, is also a prominent jockey. This familial background played a significant role in shaping his career path.
Ortiz’s early life in Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico, was marked by a passion for racing, which led him to pursue a career as a jockey. His family’s support has been crucial throughout his career.
Ortiz’s family legacy in racing has contributed to his success, making him one of the most famous Puerto Rican jockeys in international horse racing.
Table of Age Weight Height
Category | Details |
Age | 31 years old as of 2025 |
Weight | 50 kg (112 lbs) |
Height | 1.6 m (5’3″) |
Irad Ortiz Jr Education
While specific details about Ortiz’s formal education are limited, his early focus on horse racing led him to develop his skills through practical experience and training at the Escuela Vocacional Hípica in Puerto Rico.
Ortiz’s training at the vocational school provided him with the necessary skills to become a successful jockey. His practical experience has been invaluable in his career.
Ortiz’s education in horse racing has been largely hands-on, with his family and mentors playing a significant role in his development as a jockey.
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Professional Life
Irad Ortiz Jr’s professional life is marked by his achievements in horse racing. He has been a leading rider in the New York circuit and has won numerous prestigious races.
Ortiz’s success in Thoroughbred racing has led to several Eclipse Awards for outstanding jockey. He is often featured on the TVG Network, highlighting his achievements in the sport.
Ortiz’s professional life is closely tied to his racing partnerships and endorsements, which contribute to his overall success in the sport.
Conclusion
Irad Ortiz Jr net worth reflects his success in thoroughbred racing. With $20 million, he remains among the richest jockeys. His dominance in the Breeders’ Cup, Belmont Stakes, and other graded stakes races proves his talent.
Despite missing a Kentucky Derby win, his career earnings continue to grow. Sponsorships with TVG Network and American Equus boost his fortune. His horse racing legacy started in Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico, and now inspires many.
His impact on North America’s top jockey rankings remains strong. His future in professional horse racing looks even brighter.
FAQs
How much money does Irad Ortiz make?
Irad Ortiz Jr. earns millions yearly, with career purse earnings exceeding $303.5 million and an estimated $20 million net worth in 2025.
Why was jockey Irad Ortiz suspended?
He has faced suspensions for careless riding and safety violations, including incidents in graded stakes races.
How many kids does Irad Ortiz have?
Irad Ortiz Jr. has two children with his wife, Taylor Rice, a former jockey.
Is Irad Ortiz Jr. a good jockey?
Yes, he is among North America’s top jockeys, with five Eclipse Awards and multiple Breeders’ Cup victories.
Has Irad Ortiz ever won a Triple Crown race?
He has won the Belmont Stakes twice but has never won the Kentucky Derby or Preakness Stakes.
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