Did you know that some horses are worth more than luxury supercars, or even private jets? It sounds unbelievable, but it’s true. In the world of elite sports, certain breeds can cost tens of millions of dollars — and enthusiasts are willing to pay that much bigger sums
Most of us see them as beautiful animals or movie heroes. But for professionals, they are top athletes and serious investments. A horse with the right genetics and talent can win major competitions, break records, and shape future generations. That’s why prices can rise so high.
In this article, we’ll take you inside the world of the highest-valued horse breeds. You’ll learn how these breeds were created, why they became so special, and which ones made history with record-breaking prices.
Get ready — some of these stories sound like legends, but every one is real.
1. Thoroughbred
The kings of racing
In the 17th and 18th centuries, English breeders set out to create the fastest racehorse on the Earth. They crossed local mares with powerful stallions from the Middle East and North Africa, including Arabian and Barb horses. The result was the Thoroughbred, a breed.
Thoroughbreds have long legs, slim bodies, and huge lungs that help them run fast over long distances. Now, they dominate professional racing globally.
The most famous sale in history belongs to this breed too. In 2000, Fusaiichi Pegasus, winner of the Kentucky Derby, was sold for about $70M to a breeding operation in Ireland.
Other legendary Thoroughbreds include Eclipse, born in 1764, who never lost a race, as well as modern champions like Secretariat and American Pharoah.
Young Thoroughbreds can cost $10,000 to $100,000, while proven champions and breeding stars can be worth millions.
2. Selle Français
The stars of show jumping
The Selle Français comes next. This one is from France, where breeders focused on creating animals that could jump higher, move smoothly, and stay calm under pressure.
They achieved that by mixing local French horses with strong sport stallions.These animals are powerful, athletic, and smart — perfect for international competitions. Let’s talk about famous examples.
In 2013, a Selle Français named Palloubet d’Halong made headlines when he was sold for around $15 million, making him the costliest show-jumping horse ever sold. He competed at the highest level with rider Edwina Alexander and won major Grand Prix events across Europe.
Today, talented young Selle Français animals often sell for $30,000 to $150,000, while top competitors can reach multi-million-dollar prices. In case, you are planning to buy one.
3. Dutch Warmblood
The stars of dressage
In the Netherlands, breeders decided that they wanted to develop another kind of animal with other skills. The result was the Dutch Warmblood, a breed famous for dressage — a sport where horses move gracefully, like they are dancing.
Dutch Warmbloods are known for their intelligence, elegance, and strong work ethic.
One animal changed the sport forever: Totilas, ridden by Edward Gal. In 2010, Totilas became the first dressage horse to score over 90 percent, something experts once thought was impossible. Later that year, he was sold to German owner Paul Schockemöhle for an estimated $15 million. Interesting, isn’t it?
Well-bred Dutch Warmbloods usually cost $25,000 to $200,000. Yeah, they can be record-breaking in prices.
4. Andalusian (Pura Raza Española)
Animals of kings and knights
The Andalusian horse comes from Spain and has been admired for over a thousand years. These animals were used in war, royal parades, and classical riding schools. Spanish monks carefully protected the breed, keeping its bloodlines pure.
Andalusians are compact, strong, and known for their proud posture and calm nature. One of the most famous Andalusians in history was Babieca, the legendary warhorse of the Spanish hero El Cid.
Today, Andalusians are popular in classical dressage and historical riding. A well-bred young Andalusian typically costs $15,000 to $45,000.
5. Arabian
The foundation of many modern horses
The Arabian horse is one of the oldest breeds in the world. It was developed by Bedouin tribes in the deserts of the Middle East, where only the strongest and fastest ones survived. Arabians are known for their endurance, intelligence, and strong bond with humans. This breed helped shape many modern animals, including the Thoroughbred.
One of the most influential Arabians was Bask, born in Poland in 1956, who helped define the modern Arabian look. Today, Arabians are used in endurance racing, shows, and breeding programs around the world.
Most young Arabians cost $10,000 to $30,000, but top show ones and rare bloodlines can sell for much more.
Now that you know this, what’s the best choice for you?