The Kentucky Derby is known for its mint juleps, thundering hooves, and, of course, its fashion. This year, the spotlight on style belonged to New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart, who strutted away with the 'Best Dressed Gentleman' title at the 2026 Run for the Roses. While some athletes stumbled on the red carpet—like Rob Gronkowski, whose outfit drew more criticism than cheers—Dart hit a home run with his sartorial choices.
Dart, entering his second NFL season, arrived at Churchill Downs with his girlfriend, influencer Marissa Ayers, and the pair turned the event into their personal runway. The QB donned a white pinstripe suit that screamed classic elegance, paired with a black polka-dot shirt and a crisp white hat. The ensemble was a masterclass in Derby dressing: polished, bold, and undeniably spring-ready.
The official Derby dress code encourages men to embrace 'colorful suits or sports coats, often in bold prints, pastels, or preppy plaids,' and Dart delivered with a twist. His pinstripes added a timeless touch, while the polka-dot shirt injected just the right amount of personality. He didn't just follow the rules—he rewrote them.
Fans on social media were quick to crown Dart the fashion king of the day. 'Well deserved. He trained hard this year for this moment and I’m happy to see it paid off. He’s glad he did,' one fan joked, mixing football metaphors with Derby flair. Another fan declared, 'That’s my quarterback!! I love the Triple Crown Races. 🐎' Others chimed in, calling Dart and Ayers 'the best looking couple there.'
Dart wasn't the only athlete making headlines at the Derby. Cowboys Cheerleader Abby Summers and Eagles Star Cooper DeJean Go Public at Kentucky Derby added to the star-studded scene, while Gronk's Derby Look Gets a Red Card reminded everyone that fashion risks don't always pay off. Dart, however, played it smart and stylish.
The 'Best Dressed Gentleman' honor is more than a pat on the back—it's a statement. In a sea of athletes, from Joe Burrow to Jeffery Simmons and Avery Johnson, Dart stood out. His look was clean, confident, and perfectly tailored to the Derby's mix of Southern charm and high-end panache.
For Dart, this offseason has been a string of wins, both on and off the field. While his quarterback play will ultimately define his legacy, his Derby victory proves he knows how to make an entrance. As one fan put it, 'Gonna be running tempo this year. Golden Tempo.' Let's just hope his arm is as sharp as his suit.
