Who Is John R. Velazquez? Age, Biography and Wiki
John R. Velazquez was born on November 24, 1971, which makes him 53 years old in 2025. A celebrated Puerto Rican jockey, Velazquez is known for his exceptional skills on the racetrack and has a legacy that spans decades. Over his illustrious career, he has garnered numerous accolades and is widely regarded as one of the greatest jockeys in horse racing history. His biography often highlights his early beginnings in Puerto Rico, where he developed a passion for horse racing before moving to the United States to pursue his dreams.
| Occupation | Sports |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 24, 1971 |
| Age | 53 Years |
| Birth Place | Carolina, Puerto Rico |
| Horoscope | Sagittarius |
| Country | Puerto Rico |
Popularity
John R. Velazquez's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
John R. Velazquez stands at approximately 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) tall. As a professional jockey, maintaining a specific weight is crucial for his career. Velazquez's weight typically hovers around 115-120 pounds (52-54 kg), which allows him to meet the demands of racing while also maintaining optimal performance levels.
On April 20, 2006, Velazquez was seriously injured in a fall at Keeneland racetrack, suffering a fractured shoulder blade, two broken ribs, a bruised sternum, and a slightly injured right lung. He was originally expected to miss five months but was able to return for the Belmont Stakes in June, in which he finished second.
Later that year, he was elected to the Puerto Rico Horse Racing Hall of Fame.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, John R. Velazquez is known to be married to Leah Velazquez, and the couple has built a family together. They share a close-knit bond and often attend various horse racing events as a family. While there isn't much public information about his dating history prior to Leah, Velazquez values his family life and has often mentioned the importance of support from his loved ones in his career.
Soon after moving to the United States in 1990, Velazquez won his first stakes race, the Ticonderoga at Aqueduct Racetrack. His first graded stakes win came the next year in the Ohio Derby aboard Private Man. In 1995, he won his first Grade I stakes race, the Turf Classic Invitational at Belmont.
In 1996, he won his first riding title at Aqueduct and also rode his first Eclipse Award winner, Yank's Music, trained by his father-in-law, to Championship Three-Year-Old Filly honors.
Net Worth and Salary
John R. Velazquez has achieved significant financial success throughout his career. As of 2025, his estimated net worth is $300 million, primarily earned through winnings from horse racing, endorsements, and other business ventures. His salary can vary widely depending on the stakes of the races and the horses he rides but is reported to be in the range of $20 million annually, thanks to his successful partnerships and consistent performance.
John R. Velazquez (born November 24, 1971) is a Puerto Rican jockey in Thoroughbred horse racing. He began his career in Puerto Rico and moved to New York in 1990. In 2004 and 2005 he was the United States Champion Jockey by earnings and both years was given the Eclipse Award for Outstanding Jockey.
He was inducted into the Horse Racing Hall of Fame in 2012, rode his 5,000th winner in 2013, and became the leading money-earning jockey in the history of the sport in 2014.
Career, Business and Investments
Velazquez's career took off in the late 1990s and has been marked by numerous prestigious victories, including riding the winners of the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Breeders' Cup. Beyond racing, he has made astute investments in horse ownership and training, further solidifying his status in the equestrian world. He also participates in various philanthropic endeavors that support local communities and the equestrian industry.
Going into the 2007 Belmont Stakes, Velazquez was 0 for 21 in American Triple Crown races. He picked up the mount on Rags to Riches at the last moment and rode her for the first time in the Belmont. Rags to Riches stumbled at the start, then was taken wide by another horse around the first turn before Velazquez guided her to better position.
In a prolonged stretch duel with Curlin, he hit the filly twice for a little encouragement. They withstood several bumps from the colt and prevailed by a head. It was the first win for a filly in the Belmont since 1905. It was also the first Classic victory for trainer Todd Pletcher, Velazquez's most important client.
"There were drinks flying everywhere," said Lauren Robson, the exercise rider of Rags to Riches. "Leona (Velazquez) was in tears right away and she put me in tears. It was so great because Todd and Johnny have been together for so long."
Social Network
In the age of social media, John R. Velazquez has embraced digital platforms to connect with fans and promote his brand. He is active on platforms like Instagram and Twitter, where he shares insights into his life as a jockey, race-day experiences, and his family life. His social media presence allows fans to engage with him personally, fostering a loyal fanbase that keeps growing.
Education
John R. Velazquez's formal education is often overshadowed by his early entry into the world of horse racing. He has not publicly disclosed details about his educational background, focusing instead on his practical experiences in the racing industry. However, his dedication and success reflect a keen understanding of the sport, which can also be attributed to mentors he encountered throughout his journey.
