Michael Iavarone isn’t just a name in the world of horse racing—he’s a symbol of ambition, risk, and reinvention. Known for co-owning Big Brown, the Kentucky Derby and Preakness-winning horse, and now starring in Netflix’s Race for the Crown, Iavarone’s journey from humble beginnings to financial success is as thrilling as any Triple Crown race. Here’s everything you need to know about Michael Iavarone’s net worth in 2025 and how he makes his money.
What is Michael Iavarone’s net worth in 2025?
Michael Iavarone has an estimated net worth of $25 million in 2025.
His wealth comes from a combination of high-stakes investments on Wall Street and high-profile wins in the horse racing world, alongside luxury assets and a glamorous lifestyle that includes private jets and yachts.
Who is Michael Iavarone?
Born and raised in New York with modest means, Michael Iavarone knew early on that he wanted more from life. He worked his way through college and then jumped into finance by responding to a newspaper ad that promised, “Earn a million dollars in your first year.” Though he had no clue what the job entailed at the time, that leap of faith marked the beginning of his journey into the world of securities and investments.
But his passion wasn’t limited to boardrooms. At 15, Iavarone attended his first horse race at Aqueduct Racetrack with his father, and the spectacle left a lasting impression. Years later, after building a successful career on Wall Street, he returned to that childhood passion—this time, not as a spectator, but as a serious competitor.
What does Michael Iavarone do for a living?
Michael Iavarone is a racehorse owner and asset manager.
While his public persona may be more tied to his high-profile involvement in horse racing, Michael’s primary occupation remains in the financial sector. He manages investments, leveraging his extensive experience from his early days on Wall Street.
Michael Iavarone’s earnings explained — how does he make money?
- Finance and asset management: Michael Iavarone’s core source of wealth is his work as an investment banker and asset manager. After leaving horse racing in the early 2010s due to the legal troubles of a business associate, he returned to finance and rebuilt his financial footing, eventually returning to racing as a hobby rather than a business.
- Horse racing: Through his horse racing ventures—especially during the height of his involvement with International Equine Acquisitions Holdings (IEAH)—Iavarone earned significant sums. Big Brown alone earned about $3.5 million, and it’s estimated that Iavarone took home at least 40% of that.
- TV & media appearances: With the release of Netflix’s Race for the Crown, Michael and his wife Jules are enjoying renewed public attention. While earnings from the show may not match his financial ventures, it has certainly added to his brand value.
- Luxury assets & investments: With a taste for the finer things in life, Iavarone has invested in assets like luxury real estate, yachts, and a private jet—likely both for lifestyle and investment purposes.
Why did Michael Iavarone step away from horse racing?
Michael stepped away from the sport in the early 2010s after his business partner James Tagliaferri was involved in securities fraud. Although Iavarone was never charged, the situation brought unwelcome scrutiny to his horse racing syndicate, IEAH. Disillusioned by the complex dynamics of syndicate ownership, he took a break from the racing world.
How did Michael Iavarone return to racing?
In 2017, Iavarone and his wife Jules returned to horse ownership—not through syndicates, but by personally owning or co-owning select horses. This leaner, more personal approach allowed him to focus on the wellbeing of the horses and simplify decision-making. Since then, the couple has experienced steady success, competing in prestigious races like the Pegasus World Cup.
Michael and Jules Iavarone’s lifestyle
The Iavarones are often seen indulging in the kind of lifestyle you’d expect from a power couple—Miami beach outings, luxury vacations, high-end fashion, and yacht parties. Jules, who has become something of a public figure herself, is known for her stylish presence and spiritual inclinations.
Together, they currently own at least nine racehorses, either in full or in partnership, and continue to invest in their shared passion while maintaining a strong foothold in the finance world.
