Aahana Swrup
‘Race for the Crown’ is a Netflix sports docuseries that centers around the 2024 Triple Crown race series. It examines the ambitions and aspirations of the people behind the equestrian sport. This includes an entourage of devoted horse trainers, dedicated jockeys, and wealthy horse owners who stand to lose or gain the bet of a lifetime with each new race. Among this crowd, Michael Iavarone and his wife, Jules, who are often decked out in glitz and glamor, stand as distinct horse owners. Having been around the industry for a little more than a decade, Iavarone remains a recognizable face in the world of horse racing. However, his impressive history with the sport only heightens the air of intrigue around the horse-owner, his partner, and their lavish lifestyle together.
Michael Iavarone is an Asset Manager Who Aspires to Win the Derby Again
Michael Iavarone fell in love with horse racing at the age of 15 after attending the second Breeders’ Cup at Aqueduct Racetrack in 1985 with his father. However, it wasn’t until much later, once he had become a successful investment banker, that he started looking into owning horses and racing them. Around the same time, he also formed the IEAH (International Equine Acquisitions Holding), a thoroughbred horse racing stable, in 2003. Under this stable’s ownership, one of his horses, Big Brown, brought home an incredible streak in 2008, after winning both the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, two of the most prestigious horse-racing events in the US.
However, soon after this career-defining high, Iavarone faced a significant setback. James Tagliaferri, who provided major capital funding for IEAH, got involved in major legal trouble, which forced the New York-based stable to liquidate their assets. Inevitably, even though Iavarone never had connections to his business partners’ shady practices, his business suffered in the aftermath. Thus, the former Kentucky Derby winner took a break from horse racing and started rebuilding his business by working in the security industry. During this time, his paths crossed with Julia AKA Jules, who went on to become his wife and life partner. Their relationship helped Iavarone explore the flashier and more fashionable side of his personality.
Eventually, in 2017, the couple made the decision to return the Iavarone name to the racetracks. This time around, instead of operating a syndicate, Iavarone and Jules preferred to manage things personally with only a few partners. Thus, the former professionally remains an asset manager, with an impressive horse-racing hobby. In 2024, the couple competed for the Pegasus World Cup and even aspired to participate in the Kentucky Derby again with a coveted horse, Victory Avenue. Although the latter plan ended up falling through, the pair continues to race in the big leagues. In 2025, Steal Sunshine, a steed co-owned by the Iavarones and others, became a contender for the Pegasus World Cup. Unfortunately, the horse didn’t end up winning. Still, since Michael Iavarone dreams of winning the Derby again, this time with his wife by his side, this likely won’t be the last of the couple’s dedicated efforts.
Michael and Jules Iavarone Enjoy Partying as Much as Quiet Family Night-Ins
Whether it’s the racetracks or their social media accounts, Michael and Jules Iavarone can often be found decked out in designer high-fashion, living a lavish lifestyle. The couple seems to frequently engage in glamorous and fun night outs with their friends, including partying at clubs, on private jets, and on beaches alike. Recently, the duo attended the Pegasus 2025 event in matching black and silver outfits. Likewise, they also opted for a couple’s costume in last year’s Halloween, dressing up as a pilot and a fighter jet.
However, just because they enjoy luxurious tanning beds and opulent birthday bashes doesn’t mean the Iavarones aren’t inclined toward the quieter quality time spent together at home with their cat. In fact, the asset manager has expressed his preference for the same, especially on regular weekdays. Similarly, Jules, who is in tune with her spirituality, seems to be a rather free-spirited individual who loves to be surrounded by like-minded individuals. She can often be found enjoying jet-setting across the globe from Morocco to Miami. Thus, the couple seems to have found the perfect balance between larger-than-life celebrations and maintaining a personal family life.
Read More: Katie Davis: Where is the Jockey Now?
