Review: Miami’s Pegasus World Cup Ends on a High Note

The Pegasus World Cup is a long, layered day — fashion, betting, anticipation, and spectacle all building toward the main event. It’s kind of like a day at Disney World for adults: high stakes, bright colors, elaborate outfits, and endless activity that stretches from morning into the night. This year, that moment belonged to Skippylongstocking, who took home the crown and won the $3 million Pegasus World Cup, setting the tone for the night that followed.

Once the race concluded, the focus shifted from the track to music. Two Friends were the first major act to take over after the race, with the crowd still buzzing from the win. Earlier DJs, including DJ Ruckus, had already warmed things up, and when Eli Sones and Matthew Halper came on, the response was immediate. Cheers followed, energy lifted, and people began moving — still polished, still in derby attire, but clearly ready to unwind.

Known for their long-running Big Bootie Mix series, the LA-based duo delivered a set built on familiarity and momentum. Their mashups balanced pop nostalgia with dance beats that fit the moment — celebratory without overpowering the room. For roughly 90 minutes, Two Friends provided a steady release after a high-stakes day, giving the crowd space to let go without completely shifting the upscale tone of the event.

Later in the evening, Empire of the Sun offered a dramatic contrast. While officially a duo — Luke Steele and producer Nick Littlemore — only Steele performs live, and he carried the performance with theatrical precision. He appeared alongside a DJ and two dancers whose movements felt part modern dance, part performance art.

Steele’s entrance set the visual tone immediately: a red silk robe trimmed in gold, a bouquet of white roses in hand, a wide-brimmed black hat, and white makeup swept across his forehead. Beneath the robe, a full-length sequined gown revealed ornate embroidery — doves, gold detailing, and a religious image centered near the hem.

The set unfolded like a dream sequence. Empire of the Sun moved through 15 songs, including “We Are the People,” “Music on the Radio (Adam Ten Remix),” and the enduring “Walking on a Dream.” Steele’s high-range, ethereal vocals floated through the room, drawing the crowd in. Phones rose, drinks stayed in hand, and the focus shifted from celebration to immersion.

After a full day at the track, the music didn’t try to outshine the race. It followed it. Two Friends picked up the energy where the betting left off, and Empire of the Sun brought the night down gently, closing Pegasus World Cup on a steady note. The only thing missing was fireworks. Maybe next year.